Introduction:
Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam and it is an obligatory charitable donation made by Muslims around the world. Zakat is an Arabic word that means “purification” or “growth”. Zakat Foundation Worldwide (ZFW) is a nonprofit organization that aims to alleviate the suffering of the poor and needy through various charitable activities. This article will provide an overview of Zakat Foundation Worldwide, its mission, and its impact on the global community.
History and Mission of Zakat Foundation Worldwide:
Zakat Foundation Worldwide was established in 2001 in Bridgeview, Illinois. The organization’s mission is to provide assistance to those in need regardless of race, religion, or ethnicity. ZFW is committed to delivering aid in a timely, compassionate, and dignified manner to those who are suffering due to poverty, natural disasters, and conflict.
Zakat Foundation Worldwide’s focus is on long-term sustainable solutions that empower communities to become self-sufficient. This includes programs such as providing clean water, education, and vocational training. ZFW also provides emergency relief in times of crisis, including natural disasters and conflict.
Seasonal Islamic Giving:
Zakat Foundation Worldwide emphasizes the importance of seasonal Islamic giving, especially during the month of Ramadan. Ramadan is a holy month in the Islamic calendar and is a time of increased spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and charity. Muslims are required to fast during daylight hours and engage in additional acts of worship such as prayer and reading the Quran.
Ramadan is also a time of increased charitable giving. Muslims are encouraged to give more generously during this month to those in need. Zakat Foundation Worldwide offers a variety of programs during Ramadan to facilitate charitable giving. These programs include:
Ramadan Food Box Distribution: ZFW distributes food boxes to families in need during Ramadan. The food boxes contain basic food staples such as rice, flour, and oil.
Zakat-al-Fitr: This is a mandatory charitable donation given by Muslims at the end of Ramadan. Zakat Foundation Worldwide collects Zakat-al-Fitr donations and distributes them to those in need.
Eid Gift Distribution: ZFW distributes gifts to children in need during the Eid holiday that marks the end of Ramadan. The gifts include toys, clothes, and school supplies.
Iftar Sponsorship: ZFW sponsors iftar meals (the meal that breaks the fast) for families in need during Ramadan. This allows them to break their fast with a nutritious meal.
Impact of Zakat Foundation Worldwide:
Zakat Foundation Worldwide has made a significant impact on the global community through its various programs and initiatives. In 2020, ZFW provided assistance to over 18 million people in 44 countries. Some of the organization’s notable achievements include:
Emergency Response: Zakat Foundation Worldwide has responded to numerous natural disasters and conflicts around the world. In 2020, ZFW provided emergency assistance to those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as those impacted by the Beirut explosion, hurricanes in Central America, and flooding in Pakistan.
Clean Water: ZFW has provided clean water to over 4.6 million people in 17 countries. This includes drilling wells, installing water pumps, and providing water filtration systems.
Education: Zakat Foundation Worldwide has provided education to over 1.3 million students in 34 countries. This includes building schools, providing school supplies, and offering vocational training.
Women’s Empowerment: ZFW has empowered women through various programs such as microfinance, vocational training, and healthcare initiatives.
Conclusion:
Zakat Foundation Worldwide is a leading charitable organization that has made a significant impact on the global community. Through its various programs and initiatives, ZFW has provided assistance to millions of people around the world.
