This is our final update of the calendar year, which has definitely been a unique year, alhamdulillah.
We've all felt the challenges of this year, but all praise to Allah that we are here today with the blessing of shelter and food - a blessing not given to everyone. For many across the world, the coronavirus pandemic impacted those who were already vulnerable and struggling.
Countries around the world had increased pressure on their already failing medical facilities, many families were left without breadwinners, and people across the globe were in urgent need.
Ma sha' Allah, as always, you responded with compassion and generosity! Your support helped us achieve a record-breaking year - and you helped over 3.5 million beneficiaries across the globe. Your mercy gave hope to the Ummah in this year of trials, alhamdulillah.
The Prophet (saw) said, 'None of you will have faith until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself'. [Bukhari]
Let's see how your brotherly and sisterly love has made a difference this week!
Bismillah, our team in Pakistan constructed three Community Islamic Centres in rural villages in Lahore this week. These rural communities did not have facilities like this before and would have had to travel a long distance to pray in congregation or learn about Islam. Our Major Giving department worked alongside the donor to construct this beautiful Masjid, providing valuable opportunities to the local community, alhamdulillah!
Worshippers make wudu in the newly built Masjid.
The Prophet (saw) said, 'Whoever builds a masjid in which the Name of Allah is mentioned, Allah will build a house for him in Paradise'. [Ibn Majah]
If you're interested in a project like this, get in touch with our Major Giving team on 0115 911 7222.
Alhamdulilah, over 60 winter kits were distributed in Rawalakot, Pakistan this week too - one of many winter distributions across Pakistan and Afghanistan. Your donations were given to residents of a village called Tolipeer, which is 8,800ft above sea level - causing temperatures to drop to -15 degrees.
Look at their smiles, ma sha' Allah - this is the impact of your donations.
The Prophet (saw) said, 'None of you will have faith until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself'. [Bukhari]
Because of the love you've shown them, people like this elderly man are making du'a for you this winter!
Your donations reach those most in need, such as the orphans, widows, disabled and vulnerable. Your support may be the difference between life and death for these people.
As a result of the recent flooding in Somalia, our teams built 6km-long irrigation canals, which will help local farmers in the Hiran region.
This will allow their crops to grow, supporting the local community and protecting them from further flooding, alhamdulillah!
Our work is not only emergency-focused, but we are also committed to providing long-term growth in communities across the globe. This is through training and education, developing infrastructure and giving them the tools and resources to succeed.
The Prophet (saw) said, 'The most beloved of people according to Allah is he who brings most benefit, and the most beloved of deeds according to Allah the Mighty, the Magnificent, is that you bring happiness to a fellow Muslim, or relieve him of distress'. [Tabarani]
Look at the joy your donations bought this sister!
The Muslim Hands South Africa team, together with our dedicated volunteers, distributed food and hygiene packs to approximately 800 refugees from all over Africa. These internally displaced brothers and sisters of ours expressed their gratitude for the MH donors!
The Prophet (saw) said, ‘The best of you are those who feed others’. [Ahmad]
Alhamdulillah, our team in Sri Lanka distributed 125 new wheelchairs to those with special needs. This will give them increased mobility and independence, and make it easier for their families to care for them!
This young girl will now have more personal freedom with her new wheelchair, all thanks to your kindness!
And finally, cataract operations took place for 30 elderly people from different part of Sri Lanka. They waited more than three years to have the surgery done as they could not afford it. Your donations made this life-changing procedure possible.
Alhamdulillah, they can now see from both eyes and their eyesight has been restored!
If you'd like to see more of the work we've been up to around the globe, then do check out our social media channels on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
May Allah (swt) reward you all for your support and mercy. Our work is only possible through your du'as and donations. Please keep us in your prayers!
Established in 1993, Muslim Hands is an aid agency and NGO helping those affected by poverty, conflict and natural disaster in over 20 countries worldwide.