New York,
Masjid-e-Hamza, a local Masjid in Long Island, New York, inaugurated the first ever food pantry of its kind, in collaboration with ICNA Relief, a socially active Pakistani organization in New York.
Masjid-e-Hamza marked history as it became the first ever religious platform to organize a food pantry for the aid of people of New York. Inauguration ceremony was kick started by the recitation of the Holy Quran.
Post the religious saying, ribbon cutting ceremony was carried out by representatives of Masjid-e-Hamza along with the personnel from ICNA Relief. The prestigious event was widely attended by a large number of people belonging to the Pakistani community.
On this occasion, the president of Masjid-e-Hamza Sarfaraz Shaikh expressed gratitude towards the attendees, recalling the moment to be “historic”. Masjid-e-Hamza is now providing door-to-door relief to the neighbors in New York, he added.
In his address to the event, the director of ICNA Relief North East Arshad Jamal stated that to help humanity without a prejudice based on their belief, color or race is what truly brings us closer to the Almighty. Speaking to Voice of South Asia, he stated that this event would serve as the first stone to a foundation of social activities that would be carried out all through New York.
Anna Kaplan, State senator of New York was also invited as the chief guest for the event. In her address, she praised the Pakistani community for their valiant effort in providing social aid for the people of New York in the time of the pandemic. She called representing such people a “privilege”.
Renowned Islamic Radio figure Kevin Shakeel and Senator Todd Kaminsky also addressed the event on this occasion. Kevin Shakeel praised the efforts of ICNA Relief during the pandemic while Todd Kaminsky wished them a bright future ahead.
President Masjid-e-Hamza, Sarfaraz Sheikh and Director ICNA Relief North East Arshad Jamal were awarded with shields and souvenirs for their work for the community.
The food pantry in Masjid-e-Hamza is not only reserved for Muslims, but shall prove to be a harbor for people with all kinds of beliefs. ICNA Relief along with their association with Masjid-e-Hamza, expressed their desire to commence a number of other social projects for the community soon.
