South Auckland based Fatimah Foundation has appealed to residents for their support in feeding the needy.
Liaison Officer Faiyaz Khan said that demand for food from the poor has registered a substantial increase and hence there was a pronounced need for additional supplies.
“The Foundation provides food parcels to more than 50 families every week. We are keen to ensure that people do not go hungry just because they cannot afford to buy the basic needs of existence. We would appreciate the help of the community, businesses and social welfare organisations,” he said.
Mr Khan also appealed to Islamic Centres, Mosques and other religious groups to help in enhancing the stock at the food bank so that people do not starve.
“We need food items on a regular basis. These can be delivered at the premises of the Foundation located at 7 Piki Thompson Way in Otahuhu,” he said.
Volunteers welcome
The Foundation welcomes people who can give their time and effort to mobilise the requisite resources for providing community care and social welfare.
An acronym of ‘Family Assistance To Islamic Mothers And Homes, the Foundation’ was established about four years ago, with a passion for serving the poor.
Its vision has captured the attention of a large segment of the Muslim population, evincing equal interest among others.
Inspired by the teachings of the Holy Quran (that building stronger families and service to humanity are the cornerstones of human existence), the Foundation has been working to preserve and strengthen the institution of the family through education and promotion of social responsibilities.
“The fear of the unknown prevents such women from seeking timely help to resolve their family disputes. Fatimah Foundation is unique and possesses special attributes that provide value-based services and culturally appropriate facilities and services holistically to a diverse Muslim community,” he said.
Foundation Co-Founder and Service & Operations Manager Noeleen van de Lisdonk said that the primary role of the Foundation was to provide opportunities for education and promote the interests of the Muslim community through advocacy, support, education, advice, and information to families and people under stress and at risk.
“The Secondary Role is Intervention and Safety for women and children at risk or in crisis by providing critical cultural and Islamic support services. These could incorporate a follow up process, including working with the family and providing after care to women and children,” she said.
