The Dawoodi Bohras of Detroit, in partnership with local communities, gathered on the morning of Sunday, May 7th 2023, to participate in the CROP Hunger Walk. This community-based fundraising event aimed to raise awareness about hunger, combat food insecurity and raise funds to help those in need. By taking part in the CROP Hunger Walk, the Detroit Bohras demonstrated their commitment to making a difference in their community and beyond.
The CROP Hunger Walk is a nationwide initiative that originated as the “Christian Rural Overseas Program.” Established in 1969, it has since evolved into a global movement led by the Church World Service (CWS), an interfaith organization dedicated to combating food insecurity, providing access to clean water, assisting with disaster relief and addressing humanitarian needs worldwide.
For over a decade, Reverend Mimi Biedron from the North Congregational Methodist Church in Farmington Hills, has been spearheading the CROP Walk initiative in Metro Detroit. This year, the Dawoodi Bohras of Detroit raised $1800 of the $52,715 donated. A quarter of the funds raised were returned to local community partners, including CARES in Farmington Hills, Neighborhood House, Salvation Army, Zaman International, and Yad Ezra. These contributions ensure the continued operation of these organizations in addressing hunger and poverty within the local community.
The Dawoodi Bohra community has long been committed to fighting food insecurity and providing nutritious meals through their community kitchen, Faiz ul Mawaid al Burhaniyah. Under the visionary leadership of His Holiness Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin and His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, this initiative has operated successfully for over a decade. Providing daily meals to community households and ensuring Dawoodi Bohra kitchens are equipped to serve their larger societies with food donations and disaster relief speaks to His Holiness and the Community’s commitment to fighting hunger and food insecurity.
Reverend Mimi Biedron commended the Detroit Bohras’ for their remarkable efforts, stating, “your values of fighting food insecurity, caring for people in need, and limiting waste are aligned with the purpose of the CROP [Hunger] Walk. I find your commitments inspirational and am looking forward to finding more ways to work together across religious and cultural boundaries to help feed the world.”
Through their collaboration with local partners, the Dawoodi Bohras of Detroit’s have helped raise funds and awareness for many such critical issues that affect many locally and globally. These collective actions on global issues through fundraising efforts such as the CROP Hunger Walks, will continue to create a significant impact in combating food insecurity and supporting those in need.