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The Growing Burden of Poverty on Women

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 18:31:56 GMT

“Every hand held is a life uplifted. Together, we can ease the burden of poverty for widows and mothers, restoring dignity and hope where it is needed most.”

Every day, across many parts of the world, women carry a burden that is often invisible, yet incredibly heavy. Poverty does not strike equally. Its weight falls disproportionately on the shoulders of mothers and widows who, despite their own hunger and pain, strive to protect and nurture their families. As a staff member of Charity Entrust Foundation, I have had the privilege of seeing both the struggles and the extraordinary resilience of these women - and it has changed the way I view strength, sacrifice, and dignity.

The unseen sacrifices of mothers and widows

In countless households where we work, women are the ones who silently go without food so that their children can eat. They are the ones who queue for hours to collect water, even when the pumps are broken and the distance is far. They are the ones who patch old clothes, mend torn shoes, and turn the simplest of meals into nourishment for their families.

For widows, the burden is even heavier. With no partner to share responsibilities, many are left as sole providers. In communities where work opportunities are scarce, widows often depend on charity or the kindness of neighbors. Yet, despite this vulnerability, they carry themselves with dignity. When we deliver grocery bags, I often notice how they thank us first not for themselves, but because they are relieved that their children will eat that night.

It is a kind of strength that humbles us as charity workers, because it is born from necessity, not choice.

Poverty as a daily battle

When poverty becomes a daily battle, it is not just about lack of food or clothing. It is about constant choices no one should have to make. A widow might ask herself: Do I buy medicine for my fever, or do I use that money to buy a kilo of rice for my children?

I remember speaking to a mother who told me, “My children must eat, so I drink only water at night. Their sleep is important; my hunger can wait.” It is in such small and quiet ways that poverty erodes health, steals opportunities, and weakens communities.

But these are not stories of despair alone. They are also stories of incredible resilience, love, and hope.

The role of compassion

At Charity Entrust Foundation, we believe that compassion should not only be felt but acted upon. Providing grocery bags, widow pensions, and food supplies may seem like small steps when viewed against the scale of global poverty, but for each family we reach, it is the difference between despair and dignity.

When we deliver food packs, we do it at their doorstep - not to display their poverty, but to protect their dignity. For us, charity is not about numbers alone, it is about respect. We avoid unnecessary photos or public displays of need, because we believe poverty should never be a source of humiliation.

Every act of kindness has a ripple effect. When a widow is relieved of the worry of feeding her children for the month, she gains time and energy to think about how she might earn a living, learn a skill, or simply rest without fear. In that sense, charity is not only relief; it is also restoration.

Why supporting women matters

Supporting women is not charity in the narrow sense. It is investment in the future. A mother who is supported is a family that survives. A widow who receives help is a child who can stay in school. And when women are given dignity and strength, communities become stronger and more resilient. We see it in the smiles of children when their mothers can cook them a proper meal. We see it when widows join hands with neighbours and form small groups of mutual support. We see it when hope replaces the constant anxiety of survival.

The role of donors and supporters

None of this would be possible without the generosity of our donors and well-wishers. Every bag of groceries distributed, every widow pension provided, every act of support given to women in need carries within it the kindness of someone who chose to share.

As staff, we are often the ones delivering these items, but the real work is yours - the donors, the supporters, the ones who make these efforts possible. I wish you could hear the duas (prayers) made for you, whispered by women as they place food on the table for their children. I wish you could see how their faces soften when they realise that someone, somewhere, cared enough to remember them.

Your support not only feeds bodies, but it restores faith - in humanity, in compassion, and in the promise that no one is truly alone.

A call to conscience

As I write this, I know there are still many women we cannot yet reach. For every widow we support, there are others still waiting. For every mother whose children we feed, there are more who go to bed hungry.

This reality can feel overwhelming, but it should not paralyse us. It should inspire us. Because every single contribution, no matter how small, changes someone’s life. Every act of giving brings us closer to a world where women do not have to carry such burdens alone.

As staff, we see firsthand the impact of your donations. We also see the desperate need that remains. My hope is that you will continue to walk with us, to keep supporting, and to help us reach the women who are still waiting for relief, dignity, and a reason to believe that tomorrow can be better than today.

We must think and act

Poverty places its harshest weight on women, yet they rise each day with courage and faith that is difficult to put into words. As a charity, we feel honored to stand beside them, to offer a helping hand, and to share in their journey toward dignity.

But the truth is, we cannot do it alone. It is through your generosity, your compassion, and your willingness to act that we can transform lives. On behalf of every widow and mother we have served, and those we hope to serve, I thank you. May Allah reward your kindness and multiply your blessings.

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Regulators urge safe giving to charities this Ramadan - Charity Commission Press Release

Sun, 16 Mar 2025 23:36:20 GMT

Regulators urge safe giving to charities this Ramadan

This Ramadan, the Muslim Charities Forum (MCF), Fundraising Regulator and Charity Commission for England and Wales are urging people to remain vigilant when donating to charities and be alert to the risk of fake charities, fake appeal websites and email appeals impersonating genuine charities.

While most fundraising is genuine, fraudsters and criminals may take advantage of people’s generosity, especially at times of increased giving such as holy days or after a humanitarian crisis.

Ramadan is a time of generosity and charitable giving for Muslims around the world. Unfortunately, due to this willingness to give fraudsters may try to take advantage.

By sharing some simple steps the three organisations aim to help Muslims in England and Wales protect their donations and philanthropic gifts ensuring these reach the intended good causes.

The campaign, which spans the Ramadan period, encourages people to continue donate with confidence by:

checking the charity’s name and registration number on the Charity Register at  www.gov.uk/checkcharity – most charities with an annual income of £5,000 or more must be registered
making sure the charity is genuine before giving any financial information
being careful when responding to emails, texts and online messages or clicking on links within these
contacting the charity or finding out more online about it to understand how it is spending funds
looking out for the  Fundraising Badge  – the logo that says ‘registered with Fundraising Regulator’ – and checking the Fundraising Regulator’s  Directory  of organisations committed to the Code of Fundraising Practice
a face-to-face collector should have a licence from the relevant Local Authority or in Greater London the Metropolitan Police.

If after making these checks anyone thinks a collection or appeal is not legitimate, they can report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or filling in an online form .

Fadi Itani OBE, CEO of Muslim Charities Forum, said:

Giving during the month of Ramadan always rises as the month holds additional spiritual significance and reward, and this generosity must be both protected and encouraged. We urge Muslim donors to continue to give generously but to do so with caution. Stopping to think and do the necessary checks before donation will ensure that precious funds reach those in genuine need, can make a real impact in the fight against poverty and importantly, support effective charities in their continued commendable efforts to change the situations of vulnerable people.

David Holdsworth, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission, said:

Money raised during Ramadan is a lifeline to millions, and there are thousands of registered charities in England and Wales to choose from that work locally, nationally or overseas. Looking up a charity on the register is one way anyone can check their money is going where they think it is. Donating to a registered charity is a good way to feel confident of that, because of the standards the law expects of them.

Gerald Oppenheim, Chief Executive of the Fundraising Regulator, said:

Many people give generously at Ramadan and each year the funds donated by the Muslim community support vital work. Sadly, there are people who set out to take advantage of the generosity of others at this time. We encourage donors to carry out a few simple checks to help make sure the cause being donated to is genuine and that this valuable support reaches those it is intended for. Donors can be confident that charitable organisations displaying the Fundraising Badge have committed to legal, open, honest and respectful fundraising.

Ends

Notes to editors

The Charity Commission for England and Wales is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive.
The Fundraising Regulator is the independent regulator of charitable fundraising in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The regulator also has a lead role where charities primarily registered in these three countries fundraise in Scotland.
Muslim Charities Forum is a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation (1166149) to support, connect and represent Muslim-led charities.

For more information please contact the Charity Commission press office

Original Post: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/regulators-urge-safe-giving-to-charities-this-ramadan--2

Healthy Tips for Fasting During Ramadan

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 23:36:20 GMT

Healthy Tips for Fasting During Ramadan

Ramadan is a blessed month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. While fasting from dawn to sunset is a spiritual duty, it is essential to maintain good health to fulfill this obligation effectively. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"Take advantage of five before five: your health before your illness, your wealth before your poverty, your free time before your work, your youth before your old age, and your life before your death." (Sunan al-Kubrá 17630)T

Here are some key health tips to ensure a balanced and beneficial fasting experience:

1. Start with a Nutritious Suhoor

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Eat Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is blessing." (Sahih al-Bukhari 1923). A healthy Suhoor should include complex carbohydrates (whole grains, oats), protein (eggs, yogurt, nuts), and healthy fats to provide sustained energy throughout the day.

2. Hydrate Well

Drink plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor to prevent dehydration. The Prophet (peace be upon him) recommended moderation, saying: "The best drink in this world and the Hereafter is water." (Sunan Ibn Majah 3421). Avoid excessive caffeine and sugary drinks, as they can cause dehydration.

3. Break Your Fast Wisely

Follow the Sunnah of breaking the fast with dates and water (Sunan Abu Dawood 2356). Dates provide quick energy, and water rehydrates the body. Then, opt for a balanced meal with lean protein, vegetables, and healthy fats. Avoid fried and processed foods to prevent bloating and fatigue.

4. Maintain Physical Activity

Light exercises, such as walking after Iftar, help digestion and keep energy levels stable. Avoid intense workouts while fasting, as they can lead to dehydration and fatigue.

5. Prioritize Rest and Sleep

Adequate sleep is essential for maintaining energy and focus during Ramadan. The Prophet (peace be upon him) encouraged balance in worship and rest, ensuring the body remains strong for devotion.

By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, we can fulfill our fasts with strength and gratitude. May Allah bless us all with good health and a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan!

Zakat Giving and Its Benefits to Givers

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 23:36:20 GMT

Zakat Giving and Its Benefits to Givers

Zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a fundamental act of worship and social responsibility. It is not merely an obligation but a means to purify wealth and attain spiritual elevation. The Quran emphasizes the importance of Zakat, stating:

"Take, [O Muhammad pbuh], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them to increase, and invoke [Allah’s blessings] upon them." (Surah At-Tawbah 9:103)

While Zakat serves as a mechanism to uplift the less fortunate, it also offers immense benefits to the giver, fostering spiritual, financial, and social prosperity.

1. Spiritual Purification and Growth

Zakat is derived from the Arabic root "zakā," which means purification and growth. By giving a portion of their wealth, Muslims cleanse their earnings and souls from greed and selfishness. Allah reminds us:

"You shall observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) and give the obligatory charity (Zakat), and bow down with those who bow down." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:43)

The act of giving strengthens faith, increases gratitude, and reinforces the understanding that wealth is a trust from Allah swt, not a personal possession.

2. Financial Prosperity and Blessings (Barakah)

Contrary to conventional thinking, giving Zakat does not reduce wealth; rather, it increases it through divine blessings. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"Charity does not decrease wealth." (Sahih Muslim 2588)

Zakat ensures the circulation of wealth, preventing economic stagnation. It instills financial discipline, encouraging individuals to manage their resources wisely while helping others in need.

3. Strengthening Social Equity and Reducing Inequality

One of the primary purposes of Zakat is to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor. Allah commands:

"And establish prayer and give Zakat, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves – you will find it with Allah." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:110)

By redistributing wealth, Zakat fosters economic balance and reduces social disparities. It ensures that basic needs such as food, shelter, and education are met for the underprivileged, contributing to a more just society.

4. Inner Peace and Contentment

Giving Zakat instills a profound sense of peace and fulfilment. It is an act of empathy, reminding the giver of their blessings and reinforcing a sense of responsibility toward the community. Allah promises:

"Those who establish prayer and give Zakat, and they, of the Hereafter, are certain [in faith]." (Surah An-Naml 27:3)

This certainty in faith brings contentment and reduces anxiety about material possessions, fostering a life of purpose and tranquillity.

5. Reward in the Hereafter

Zakat is not only a means of social reform but also an investment in the Hereafter. The Quran states:

"The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed of grain that sprouts seven ears; in every ear, there are a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:261)

By fulfilling this obligation, believers secure an everlasting reward, paving the way for success in both this life and the next.

Zakat is more than just a financial duty; it is a transformative practice that benefits both the giver and society. It purifies wealth, increases barakah, reduces inequality, and nurtures spiritual growth. As Muslims, embracing the true essence of Zakat ensures not only material prosperity but also eternal rewards from Allah swt.

Let us give with sincerity and generosity, knowing that every act of charity returns in manifold blessings.

Donate Zakat