The Dawoodi Bohras of Birmingham place great importance on fostering close relationships with their neighbours. One such cherished friendship is with Brookfields Primary School, the closest neighbour for many years to the Bohras’ masjid, located in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham.
With the approach of the school summer holidays, the Birmingham community of Dawoodi Bohras recognised the challenges many local families face in feeding their children due to the absence of school meals, and so they undertook a food donation drive during the month of Zil Hajj, also known as Dhu al-Hijjah.
Dhu al-Hijjah is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar, known for its significant religious events, including the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca and the celebration of Eid ul-Adha. It is a time marked by acts of worship, reflection, and charity. According to one Dawoodi Bohras organiser, Yusuf Kaderbhai, “Our community members were invited to donate dried foods while attending the masjid. The response was overwhelming, resulting in a substantial collection of dried foods, including soup, cereals, sugar, and teabags”.
This donation was undertaken as part of Project Rise, the Dawoodi Bohras’ global initiative to support vulnerable members of society. Volunteers from the Birmingham Dawoodi Bohras delivered these donations to Brookfields Primary School, where they were warmly received by Headmistress Leanne Mahony and her leadership team.
Leanne expressed her deep appreciation, stating, “On behalf of our entire community, I extend our heartfelt thanks for your generous food donations. Your kindness not only nourishes our families but also strengthens the bonds of support and collaboration among us. Your contributions are deeply valued and have made a significant impact on many lives. We are profoundly grateful for your continued support and commitment to helping those in need.”
The Dawoodi Bohras of Birmingham are honoured to support Brookfields Primary School and its families, reinforcing the spirit of giving and solidarity. They look forward to continuing their efforts to assist those in need and uphold the values of compassion and generosity.