Helping the Homeless
Zakat, one of Islam's Five Pillars, requires Muslims to donate a portion of their wealth to those in need. In 2017, a community in London organized a Zakat-funded initiative to provide meals for the homeless. Volunteers prepared hot meals, including rice, meat, and vegetables, and distributed them in shelters and on the streets. Beyond kitchen, they offered warm clothing and hygiene kits. Many recipients were moved by the kindness, and some even joined future volunteer efforts. This project not only addressed hunger but also fostered compassion and unity within the community.
Launched in 2013, the Intouch Mobile Kitchen sets up weekly outside Church Green to serve hot meals to the homeless. Volunteers cook and distribute nutritious kitchen, along with tea and coffee, offering warmth and dignity to those in need. The initiative also connects homeless individuals with local support services, helping them find shelter and employment. Many volunteers, including former beneficiaries, return to give back, creating a cycle of kindness. The program has grown into a lifeline for the vulnerable, proving that small acts of care can transform lives.
During a harsh winter, a group in Manchester collected donations to buy blankets and sleeping bags for the homeless. They partnered with local businesses to distribute these items, along with homemade soups and sandwiches. One volunteer, Sarah, recalled a man tearfully thanking her, saying it was the first time he'd slept warmly in weeks. The project expanded to include temporary shelter referrals, showing how simple gestures can restore hope and safety to those on the streets.
A barber in Birmingham started offering free haircuts to the homeless, believing dignity begins with self-care. Every Sunday, he set up a chair in a park, transforming lives one trim at a time. Recipients shared that the haircuts boosted their confidence for job interviews or reconnecting with family. Inspired, other stylists joined, and the initiative grew into a monthly event offering grooming, meals, and counseling. This small act of kindness reminded many that they were seen and valued.
After noticing many homeless people wore torn shoes, a student in Glasgow organized a shoe donation drive. She collected over 200 pairs, distributing them at shelters. One recipient, David, had been wearing wet shoes for months, causing severe foot pain. The new sneakers allowed him to walk comfortably and attend job training. The drive now runs annually, pairing shoes with sock donations and foot care kits, proving that practical aid can pave the way to stability.