During the month of Ramadan, Dawoodi Bohras all over the world come together to show compassion and generosity to those in need, while giving thanks for their many blessings. Under the umbrella of the Bohras’ global Project Rise initiative, Chicago community members donated food throughout Ramadan, continuing an annual tradition stretching back more than a decade.
“When we started this event, I saw it as a great way for the Dawoodi Bohras to give back to society,” said Hussain Bhanpuri, the organizer of this initiative. “Throughout the month of Ramadan, we are constantly in a state of prayer and a mindset of giving back to our community. The food drive gives us a chance to fulfill that.”
Project Rise members of Chicago sorted and boxed donated food totaling more than 400 lbs. On par with previous years, 13 large boxes of food were donated this year consisting mostly of rice and pulses, pasta oil, sugar, tea, and dates, as well as other nonperishable items.
For the fourth year in a row, the food was donated to The Islamic Center of North America (ICNA) Chicago branch. ICNA is a national organization based in the United States that provides services to low income groups, including refugees. ICNA provides food from two pantries located in Chicago and Glendale Heights, the location for the drop off.