Dev-Hanan – United Muslims

March 15, 2024January 15, 2025

A Mother’s Triumph: Fueled by Zakat

In the quiet corners of life where challenges loom large, the strength of the human spirit often shines the brightest. This is the story of Sakina, a widowed mother whose resilience in the face of adversity is a profound testament to the power of hope and the critical role of compassionate support. Sakina’s life changed irrevocably when she became a widow. With no income and the responsibilities of caring for Palwasha, her autistic daughter, the weight of their circumstances could have easily overwhelmed her. Autism presents unique challenges, from communication barriers to the need for constant supervision, which require not only time and patience but also resources that Sakina did not have. Yet, she found her strength renewed each day by the support of a community that chose to stand by her side.

“As a widow without any income source and caring for my autistic daughter, our household relies totally on the generosity of donors,” Sakina shares.

The simple truth in her words highlights a lifeline that many in similar situations depend on. It is through the kindness of strangers and the efforts of organizations like United Muslims that Sakina and Palwasha have been able to navigate their daily lives with a little less to worry about. Donations have not only provided them with basic necessities but have also brought services and interventions that are crucial for Palwasha’s development and well-being.

The impact of the charity’s intervention is palpable in every aspect of their lives. Financial aid has stabilized their living conditions, allowing Sakina to maintain a home environment conducive to her daughter’s needs. Palwasha, primarily engaged with children her age, finds joy and connection in the simplicity and innocence of play, which also serves as a form of learning and interaction. Furthermore, the emotional support from the community has given Sakina a network of peers and professionals who understand her challenges and offer practical advice and emotional solace.

Today, Sakina and Palwasha are more than just survivors of their circumstances; they are active participants in a community that values them. Each donation that supports their livelihood not only affirms their place in the world but also strengthens the fabric of their community. It is a reaffirmation that despite the hardships, there is always a place for hope and growth.

Sakina’s story is a call to all of us to recognize the impact our support can have on an individual’s life. It is a reminder that behind every donation, there is a story of real human struggle and resilience. By supporting charities like United Muslims, we contribute to a greater good that goes beyond the immediate benefits of financial aid—we help build a more inclusive and empathetic world. In a society that often overlooks the silent battles many face, Sakina and Palwasha’s journey reminds us of the transformative power of collective care and shared responsibility. Let’s continue to support and uplift each other, for it is together that we can turn challenges into opportunities for growth and healing.

March 10, 2024January 15, 2025

Charity for Education: Muskan’s Ascent Through Donor Support

In the heart of Pakistan, where dreams often succumb to the harsh realities of economic and social constraints, Muskan’s aspiration to become a nurse was nearly thwarted. Growing up in a community where higher education for girls is often not a priority, Muskan faced numerous challenges that almost forced her to abandon her dreams. However, her path took a hopeful turn thanks to the intervention of a kind-hearted sponsor through United Muslims’ education fund.

“I was close to abandoning my dream of nursing until a sponsor restored my hope for the future,” Muskan recalls.

This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life, one where her aspirations could flourish free from the financial constraints that once seemed insurmountable. With the scholarship provided, Muskan was not only able to enroll in nursing school but also to fully commit to her studies without the burden of tuition fees and related costs.

Muskan’s dedication to nursing stems from a deep-seated desire to give back to her community, particularly to those affected by natural disasters or conflicts. She understands firsthand the critical need for medical professionals in regions that are frequently struck by calamities. Her goal is to bring healing and hope to places where both are in short supply, inspired by the life-changing support she received from her sponsors.

Today, Muskan is well on her way to achieving her dream. The scholarship from United Muslims has been more than just financial assistance—it has been a vote of confidence in her potential and a catalyst for change in her life and community. Through her education, she is gaining the skills necessary to be an effective nurse, one who can not only provide critical care but also empathy and understanding to those in dire need.

The impact of Muskan’s forthcoming career extends beyond her immediate family. It is anticipated to ripple through her community as she becomes a source of inspiration and a beacon of what is possible for other young girls in her region. Muskan’s story underscores the transformative power of education and how strategic support from organizations like United Muslims can lift individuals and communities out of the cycle of poverty and hardship.

As Muskan continues her journey toward becoming a nurse, her story serves as a powerful testament to the importance of supporting educational initiatives for underprivileged youth. It highlights the role of scholarships in empowering young people to pursue their professional dreams and, in turn, contribute meaningfully to their societies.

United Muslims remains committed to fostering such talents, understanding that every educated individual is a stepping stone to broader social and economic development. Muskan’s success is not just a personal victory; it is a collective triumph for her community and for the countless other potential students who are inspired by her journey. With continued support, United Muslims hopes to replicate this success story, enabling more young women like Muskan to transform their lives and, by extension, their communities.

February 20, 2024January 15, 2025

Child Sponsorship: Saba’s Path to College

In the patchwork of individual struggles and community efforts, some stories shine as beacons of hope and determination. Saba’s narrative is one such tale—highlighting resilience, the power of education, and the impact of heartfelt child sponsorship. As the eldest of four sisters in a modest household, Saba faced numerous challenges that threatened to derail her dreams of education and a better life.

Growing up in a household strained by financial limitations, Saba’s education was always at risk. Her mother, a hardworking seamstress, managed to support the family by sewing clothes at home. Despite her efforts, the meager income she earned was barely enough to cover daily expenses, let alone the costs of education for four growing girls. The situation was further complicated by a disheartened father, disillusioned by not having a son, and thus, detached from the family’s financial needs.

At the pivotal age of 11, when Saba’s educational future hung by a thread, she was sponsored by a donor through the United Muslims’ child sponsorship program. This sponsorship was more than just a financial lifeline—it was a gateway to new possibilities and a reassurance of her potential. With the financial burden lifted, Saba could continue her schooling uninterrupted, allowing her to excel in her studies and aspire beyond the socio-economic constraints of her environment.

Now on the verge of entering college, Saba is a testament to what access to education can achieve. Her academic journey has not only been a personal triumph but has also served as an inspiration to her sisters and her community. She stands as a role model, showing that with determination and support, barriers can be broken, and dreams can be pursued relentlessly.

Saba’s gratitude towards her sponsor is profound. She often expresses heartfelt thanks for the role they’ve played in her life, stating:

“Without the support of a helping hand, my college dreams and aspirations would have remained out of reach. Now, I am on a path to not only transform my own life but also uplift my family out of poverty.”

Her ambition doesn’t stop at personal success; she is driven by the desire to give back to her community and support other young girls who are in the same shoes she was once in.

Despite her father’s initial reluctance and disappointment over not having sons, the success of his daughters, spearheaded by Saba’s achievements, has begun to change his perspective. The community’s support and the visible improvements in their living conditions have demonstrated that daughters can be just as capable and deserving of opportunities as sons.

As Saba prepares to enter college, her journey is a vivid reminder of the transformative power of education. United Muslims continues to support individuals like Saba, advocating for education and empowerment as fundamental rights that should be accessible to all, regardless of gender or economic background. Saba’s story is not just about overcoming adversity but also about changing perceptions and inspiring a community to value the potential of every child. This blog aims to highlight the profound impact that educational sponsorship can have on a young person’s life and their community. It underscores the importance of continued support for educational programs that empower young women like Saba to change their destinies and those around them.

February 15, 2024January 15, 2025

Tehimna’s Story: Women Empowerment in Action

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to forget the power of community and the impact it can have on individuals facing adversity. Such is the story of Tehmina, a resilient woman whose life took an unexpected turn when her husband was diagnosed with cancer. With a husband unable to work due to his illness and three young children to care for, Tehmina found herself in a challenging situation. Every day became a battle against mounting medical bills, household expenses, and the emotional toll of watching a loved one fight for their life.

Amidst the struggle, a ray of hope emerged in the form of the United Muslims Organization. Recognizing Tehmina’s plight, they extended a helping hand, offering not just financial assistance, but something even more valuable – support and solidarity. Through the organization’s efforts, Tehmina found employment at a local gym, allowing her to provide for her family while still being present for her husband during his treatments. But our assistance didn’t stop there. Understanding the importance of education, we also supported Tehmina’s children, ensuring they had the resources needed to thrive in school.

With the weight of her burdens lightened by the kindness of strangers turned friends, Tehmina discovered a newfound strength within herself. No longer navigating life’s challenges alone, she found solace in the knowledge that she was part of a compassionate and a caring community.

“The continuous support of an invisible hand empowered me to learn skills that have allowed me to feed my children and send them to school.”

Tehmina shares with United Muslims’ volunteer

Tehmina’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of community. In a world often marked by division and discord, it’s stories like hers that inspire us to reach out a helping hand to those in need, knowing that together we can overcome even the greatest of challenges.

February 10, 2024January 15, 2025

Kulsoom’s Strength: Hope and Support Through Charity Appeals

In the face of adversity, Kulsoom’s unwavering strength and resilience shine as a beacon of hope. With her husband battling cancer and unable to work, Kulsoom found herself in a challenging situation. Despite her own limitations due to old age, she was determined to provide for her family. Their situation grew even more dire when their minor son had to step in and take on the responsibility of working to support the family. Kulsoom faced a heartbreaking dilemma, torn between her desire to shield her son from the burdens of adulthood and the harsh reality of their circumstances.

However, amidst the darkness, a ray of light emerged in the form of the United Muslims charity organization. Recognizing Kulsoom’s plight, we extended a helping hand, offering assistance and support to ease the family’s burden. With the help of our donors, Kulsoom’s family experienced a transformational change. The financial aid provided by the organization relieved the strain of their dire circumstances, allowing Kulsoom’s son to receive training and landing a respectable job at a local shop.

“I’ve witnessed my son grow into a responsible gentleman who cares for his sisters. The job and training he received have transformed our household dynamics.”

Kulsoom shares with United Muslims’ volunteer

But perhaps even more impactful than the financial assistance was the sense of community and solidarity that United Muslims charity provided. Kulsoom found solace in knowing that she was not alone, that there were people who cared and were willing to stand by her side during her family’s darkest hour. Today, Kulsoom’s family stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community. With the support of United Muslims charity, they have weathered the storm and emerged stronger than ever before.

In a world often characterized by division and despair, Kulsoom’s story serves as a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is hope to be found. Through the kindness and generosity of organizations like United Muslims charity, lives can be transformed, and families can find the strength to overcome even the most daunting of challenges.

January 15, 2024January 15, 2025

Palwasha’s Resilience: Triumphing Through Adversity with Islamic Aid

Palwasha’s life story is a profound testament to the power of resilience and community support. Born with autism, she has faced more challenges than many could imagine. Despite these hurdles, her spirit has never wavered, her resolve never weakened.

From an early age, Palwasha’s life took a series of tumultuous turns. She was married off young, a decision complicated by her autism, which made it difficult for her to grasp the full implications of this life change. The marriage, fraught with misunderstanding and hardship, eventually ended in divorce, leaving her to face the consequences alone. The strain of her circumstances tragically impacted her father, who passed away burdened by the pain of his daughter’s struggles.

In the wake of these hardships, Palwasha found comfort in her role within her family and joy in interacting with much younger children. Her ability to find happiness in the simple pleasures of life, and her enduring strength, shone as a beacon of hope for those around her.

Normally we can’t afford meat, but today I made chicken curry for my friends, and we celebrated Eid joyfully.” Palwasha shares with United Muslims’ volunteer

The turning point came when the United Muslims charity stepped in to offer their support. The donations provided not just financial aid but also emotional counseling, helping Palwasha and her family navigate their challenges with greater ease. This comprehensive support system was instrumental in restoring their hope and rebuilding their lives.

Embracing the opportunities afforded by the charity’s involvement, Palwasha began to engage more actively in her community. She found great satisfaction in contributing positively to the lives of others, particularly in nurturing the youth. These activities not only gave her a sense of purpose but also highlighted her inherent capacity to inspire and enrich the lives of those around her.

Today, Palwasha stands as a powerful example of what it means to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. With the steadfast support of United Muslims, she has transformed her life’s narrative from one of adversity to one of triumph. Her journey is a vivid illustration of how, with the right support and a lot of heart, individuals can rise above their circumstances and thrive.

Palwasha’s story is a poignant reminder of the critical role that compassion and community play in our lives. It underscores the importance of organizations like United Muslims charity, whose efforts can dramatically alter the course of a person’s life. In a world often beset by division and despair, her story renews our faith in humanity and the transformative power of collective compassion. Her resilience not only celebrates her personal victories but also serves as an inspiration to us all, showing how from the depths of hardship can emerge stories of profound courage and hope.

January 2, 2024January 15, 2025

A Mother’s Journey: Education Waqf Support Through United Muslims

In the intricate mosaic of life, there are tales that capture the essence of resilience, stories that showcase the profound impact of kindness and communal support. This is the story of Sajida, a mother whose path from adversity to hope was lit by the compassionate support of United Muslims.

“I am the proud mother of four daughters, all of whom are now pursuing their education with our sponsors’ help. I am confident they will attain their goals and succeed in ways traditionally expected of sons.” Sajida tells a United Muslims’ volunteer helping her set up a new sewing machine she just received.

Sajida faced daunting challenges as a young mother in Pakistan, tasked with raising four daughters in a society that often undervalued women. Financial hardships, societal expectations, and emotional tolls darkened their days. The pressure to bear a son—viewed by many as a bearer of family legacy—added to her burden, leaving her to navigate a relentless tide of difficulties. Yet, in these trying times, United Muslims emerged as a beacon of hope.

United Muslims, guided by deep-seated principles of empathy and proactive assistance, extended a lifeline to Sajida and her daughters. The organization’s intervention became a turning point, illuminating the possibilities that lay ahead. Financial support eased the economic pressures, enabling Sajida to secure a stable home and meet the basic needs of her family. This foundational stability allowed her to embark on a new venture—a home-based tailoring business—further solidifying her path to financial independence.

Education played a pivotal role in transforming the lives of Sajida’s daughters. Through scholarships provided by United Muslims, they accessed quality education, which kindled their aspirations and equipped them with the tools to succeed. These opportunities fostered a new sense of confidence and ambition, setting them on a trajectory to build promising futures.

Emotional support and mentorship were equally crucial. United Muslims provided a supportive network that offered guidance and reassurance through every hurdle and achievement. This continuous emotional backing helped the family navigate their challenges with increased resilience and optimism.

Today, Sajida and her daughters are symbols of hope and determination within their community. They exemplify what is possible when charity goes beyond mere aid and fosters empowerment and self-reliance. Their story is not just one of overcoming adversity but of thriving despite it. They serve as powerful reminders that with the right support, women can transform not only their own lives but also those of everyone around them.

Their journey from shadows to success underscores the transformative power of charitable giving. It is a clear testament to the importance of supporting initiatives like those of United Muslims, which not only provide immediate relief but also invest in the long-term development of individuals and communities.

This narrative of resilience and hope illustrates the profound impact that thoughtful, compassionate support can have. It encourages us all to contribute, in whatever way we can, to such life-changing efforts. For Sajida and her daughters, and for countless others like them, every donation lights a path to a brighter future.

April 15, 2023January 15, 2025

Celebrating New Beginnings: Aqiqah Feasts at the Orphanage

In the warm, communal spaces of our partnering orphanage in Pakistan, the aroma of meat curry often fills the air, bringing a special kind of joy and celebration to the children’s daily lives. This isn’t just any meal—it’s a feast provided by the kind-hearted donors of United Muslims, marking the aqiqah of a newborn. Each serving is not only a physical nourishment but also a symbol of a community’s shared blessings and goodwill.

Aqiqah, an Islamic tradition, involves the sacrifice of an animal on behalf of a newborn child, celebrating their arrival into the world. It’s a practice that embodies gratitude and generosity, meant to share joy and sustenance with others, especially those in need. At United Muslims, we take this responsibility to heart, ensuring that the ritual of aqiqah not only honors the child but also brings tangible benefits to some of the most vulnerable members of the Muslim community—orphans.

Through our aqiqah service, families can commemorate their new addition while contributing directly to the well-being of orphans. When a family chooses to perform their aqiqah with us, we arrange for the sacrifice of goats or sheep, as per Islamic injunctions, and the meat is then prepared and distributed to various orphanages like the one in Pakistan. Here, the meat becomes part of nourishing meals for children who rarely enjoy the luxury of eating meat.

On days when the curry simmers in the kitchen, the children gather, excited by the special meal laid out before them. As they sit down to eat, they are told about the newborn in whose honor the meal is served. This connection to a broader ummah (community) instills in them a sense of inclusion and celebration. Following the meal, the children together send prayers for the baby’s health and prosperity, turning an act of charity into a moment of communal prayer and gratitude.

“In our orphanage, we occasionally enjoy meat curry and learn that it’s in celebration of a newborn. We then pray for the baby’s well-being and savor the special meal.”

This practice not only feeds their bodies but also nourishes their spirits, teaching them the values of sharing, community, and the continuous cycle of giving and receiving that underpins Islamic charitable acts. It is a profound lesson in the interconnectedness of our lives, regardless of the physical distances that may separate us.

United Muslims is committed to using the aqiqah service as a means to support and uplift orphans, providing not just food but also a reason to celebrate. Each aqiqah is a promise of kindness, a gesture that goes beyond the mere act of giving, becoming a lifeline of hope and joy for the children.

For donors, participating in this service multiplies their joys, knowing their celebration of a new life extends to brighten the lives of others. This story of shared meals and shared joys at the orphanage is just one of the many testaments to the powerful impact of collective charitable efforts. It’s a reminder that every child, born anywhere in the world, brings with them the potential to touch lives and inspire goodness across continents.

April 4, 2023January 15, 2025

Ramadan Renewed: How Fidya Donations Empower Families

In the remote corners of Afghanistan, where daily life is marked by struggles for basic necessities, the holy month of Ramadan brings with it not only spiritual reflection but also the challenge of sustenance. For one family, this sacred time has been transformed from a period of hardship into one of spiritual renewal and communal support, thanks to the generosity of Fidya donations facilitated by United Muslims.

“This family’s story is a poignant illustration of the impact that Fidya contributions can have. “Every Ramadan, we receive packages filled with vital items that support our fasting. This has truly inspired my children to fast with greater zeal.”

shares the head of the household.

These packages are not just boxes of food; they are parcels of hope, containing essential items that relieve the burden of securing daily sustenance during the fasting month. With these provisions, the family can fully engage in the spiritual and communal aspects of Ramadan, focusing on prayer and reflection rather than where their next meal will come from.

The impact on the family’s children has been particularly profound. Witnessing the arrival of these Ramadan packs each year has inspired them to participate in fasting with greater enthusiasm and understanding. The children see the fasting not just as an obligation but as a celebration of faith that is supported by the global Muslim community. It’s a practical demonstration of the ummah’s solidarity, showing that even in their isolation, they are not alone.

The Fidya funds, traditionally given by those who cannot fast due to health reasons, are used by United Muslims to assemble and distribute these ‘Ration packs’. Each pack is carefully curated to include a variety of foods that are both nutritious and culturally appropriate, ensuring that the families can enjoy their pre-dawn and post-sunset meals with dignity and joy. The packs often include grains, oils, dates, and other staples that can sustain a family throughout the month.

This gesture of support goes beyond the physical nourishment it provides—it’s a spiritual lifeline for those who might otherwise struggle with the dual challenges of poverty and fasting. For this Afghan family, and many others like them, the Fidya donations are a yearly blessing that reinforces their faith and their connection to the wider Muslim community.

The story of this family’s Ramadan experience is a powerful reminder of the beauty of shared burdens and collective support. It highlights how Fidya, an act of faith and charity, not only fulfills a religious obligation for the donor but also acts as a critical support for those in need, allowing them to participate fully in one of the most important spiritual observances in Islam.

As we continue to support and expand our Fidya programs, stories like these serve as a testament to the tangible difference our contributions make. They are a call to action for all of us within the Muslim community to reach out with compassion and generosity, especially during the blessed month of Ramadan. By doing so, we uphold the true spirit of fasting and fortify the bonds that connect us across continents and cultures.