Zakat Foundation™ Saudi Arabia Annual Report 1998: Empowering Communities through Charitable Giving
Introduction:
Zakat, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a form of obligatory charity that holds great significance for Muslims around the world. It is meant to purify wealth and help those in need, with the ultimate goal of creating a just and equitable society. In Saudi Arabia, Zakat is an important aspect of the country's socio-economic system, and the Zakat Foundation™ Saudi Arabia has been playing a crucial role in managing and distributing Zakat funds to those in need. The annual report for the year 1998 provides insights into the foundation's activities and impact during that year, showcasing its commitment to empowering communities through charitable giving.
Overview of Zakat Foundation™ Saudi Arabia:
Zakat Foundation™ Saudi Arabia is a prominent charitable organization that was established in 1980 under the auspices of the Saudi Arabian government. It is authorized to collect, manage, and distribute Zakat funds in accordance with Islamic principles and the regulations set by the government. The foundation's primary mission is to help the less fortunate and alleviate poverty in Saudi Arabia by providing essential services and support to eligible beneficiaries.
Key Activities and Programs:
The annual report of Zakat Foundation™ Saudi Arabia for 1998 highlights the wide range of activities and programs undertaken by the foundation to fulfill its mission. These include:
Zakat Collection and Distribution: The foundation collects Zakat funds from various sources, including individuals, businesses, and institutions, as well as from the government. In 1998, the foundation collected over SAR 2.5 billion (approximately USD 667 million) in Zakat funds. These funds were distributed to eligible beneficiaries through various channels, such as cash assistance, food aid, healthcare services, educational support, and housing assistance.
Social Development Programs: Zakat Foundation™ Saudi Arabia implements various social development programs aimed at empowering communities and promoting self-sufficiency among beneficiaries. These programs include vocational training, employment generation initiatives, and entrepreneurship support. In 1998, the foundation provided vocational training to over 3,500 individuals and facilitated the creation of more than 2,000 job opportunities.
Healthcare Services: The foundation recognizes the importance of healthcare in improving the well-being of individuals and communities. In 1998, Zakat Foundation™ Saudi Arabia supported several healthcare programs, including medical camps, mobile clinics, and health awareness campaigns. These programs reached thousands of beneficiaries, providing them with essential healthcare services and raising awareness about preventive measures for diseases.
Educational Support: Education is a key driver of social and economic development, and Zakat Foundation™ Saudi Arabia is committed to providing educational opportunities to underprivileged individuals. In 1998, the foundation supported various educational initiatives, including scholarships, school construction projects, and teacher training programs. Over 4,000 students benefited from the foundation's educational support programs during the year.
Emergency Relief: Zakat Foundation™ Saudi Arabia is known for its prompt response in providing emergency relief to those affected by natural disasters or conflicts. In 1998, the foundation extended emergency relief to victims of floods, earthquakes, and conflicts in different parts of the world. The report highlights the foundation's efforts in providing timely and effective relief to those in need during times of crisis.
Impact and Reach:
The annual report of Zakat Foundation™ Saudi Arabia for 1998 showcases the significant impact of the foundation's programs and services. In that year, the foundation reached over 2 million beneficiaries across Saudi Arabia and in other countries. The report also highlights the positive changes brought about by the foundation's programs, such as improved access to education, increased employment opportunities, enhanced healthcare services, and reduced poverty levels among beneficiaries.