The Karim Foundation launches its Cambridge Ramadan Appeal to raise urgent funds for families and individuals in the city who need emergency food and fuel support.

We enter the blessed month of Ramadan, a period for Muslims around the world to fast and abstain from food, drink and other material acts between the hours of dawn and dusk. Other acts of worship such as prayer, reading the Qur'an and giving charity are also encouraged during this auspicious month.

Since the start of the pandemic, many people have experienced financial hardship. COVID-19 has had a disproportionate health impact on BAME individuals. BAME and single-parent families across the UK have been worst hit financially by the pandemic, research from the University of Essex has found.

Over the last twelve months, we have provided culturally appropriate dietary food predominantly to those from ethnic minorities, with many having no recourse to public funds from the most deprived wards in Cambridge. Over 180 food packs as well as shop vouchers, emergency fuel provision and support (blankets and heaters) have been provided. We have assisted over 450 people - including at least 100 households - during this period. More than two thirds of those households comprised of families, single person and single parents.

"Last Ramadan, many of you graciously donated towards the Cambridge Muslims COVID-19 Response fundraiser, and the success of that appeal led to us launching the Karim Foundation in September 2020," Trustee Kal Karim said. "Your donations have improved lives in Cambridge, with many beneficiaries only needing one-off support and some requiring additional help which we have been able to provide.

"This Ramadan, let's work together again and help those in need in our communities. We hope you will support and donate generously towards this appeal."

You can support the Cambridge Ramadan Appeal through donating, volunteering your time, or fundraising with your family and friends so we can help locals in adversity during these difficult times.

We will continue to work in partnership with the Cambridge Ethnic Community Forum, Cambridge City Council, and local independent food stores. We are also part of the Cambridge Food Poverty Alliance, which aims to work together strategically and collaboratively to alleviate food poverty in the city.

Please donate generously. We wish everyone observing Ramadan this year a safe, blessed and peaceful month. Ramadan Mubarak.