A Dundee charity is working to reach Muslims in need during the holy month of Ramadan as it is feared many will be isolated while mosques are closed.
Yusuf Youth Initiative, which helps thousands of locals from all walks of life, will next week begin delivering hot meals to the doors of fasting Muslims.
Month-long Ramadan will see Muslims abstain from food and drink — including water — from sunrise to sunset from April 23.
The city’s five mosques, where locals usually go to break the fast, are all currently shut to stop the spread of coronavirus.
YYI will make sure Dundonians struggling financially, workers on the frontline, people in isolation and the elderly and vulnerable will be fed during the effort.
YYI CEO Faisal Hussein said it “breaks his heart” to know people would be without a hot meal and the community spirit which binds Ramadan.
He said: “We know there are parts of the Muslim community that are not reaching out for support and we want to identify them.
“Usually Muslims fasting go to the mosque for prayers and it makes it easier. Many will then return to eat and to see others to break the fast.
“Ramadan this year will mean we cannot do this and for some it will be very difficult.
“One of the main reasons we do Ramadan is to strengthen community spirit but sadly that will be removed.
“Luckily, it is also the month of sharing and helping and we will have enough support to bridge that gap.”
A number of local takeaways, as well as individual families, have signed up to prepare the meals, which are being named Iftar Packs.
Iftar is the name for the evening meal when the fast is broken at sunset.
As well as fasting, Muslims are required to refrain from any and all sinful deeds for the month and help others as much as possible.
It is believed the ritual brings greater understanding of the suffering of others as well as increasing closeness to God.
Mr Hussein added it is difficult to estimate demand for the new initiative but that the organisation has already received 60 referrals after announcing it on Monday.
He said: “Once someone signs up, we will work under the assumption they need a hot meal for every night of Ramadan.
“We can deliver less if requested and we can also deliver shopping instead.
“People often ask me if fasting is difficult and I usually say no because when you are with others doing the same, it helps.
“To have someone chap your door and leave food each day would be a very powerful thing.
“We want to make sure people have enough food on their plates.
“We have lots of volunteers ready to help.”
Mahmud Sarwar Ratho, a trustee of the Scottish Islamic & Cultural Centre on Dura Street, said the current situation is difficult for everyone.
“This is the first time in history there will be a Ramadan like this,” he said.
“We cannot go to mosque just now and we need to support each other.
“For people from all parts of society, it is challenging. Easter for Christians across the world last weekend was the same.
“We are in touch with the local community at large and we are here to help anyone who needs it, regardless of religion.”
YYI is best known for running city charity Taught by Muhammad, which runs a food bank as well as a community cafes providing free three-course meals for the vulnerable and isolated.
To sign up for help during Ramadan, call the YYI sub-group Change Makers on 07308956939 or email info@iwantchange.org.uk
