MKA Greenford – Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Aid Homeless in Central London Amidst Cost-of-Living Crisis
London, December 17, 2023 – In an inspiring act of community service and faith, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (MKA Middlesex) in London dedicated their Sunday to help the homeless, embodying the Islamic ethos of serving humanity. This selfless initiative, held in Central London, was a practical demonstration of their motto, “Love for All, Hatred for None,” and the Islamic principle of helping those in need.
Early in the morning, the women of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community in Hounslow gathered with a sense of purpose and camaraderie. Their mission was clear: to prepare over 80 nutritious meals for the homeless. This gesture was more than just an act of charity; it was a sacrifice of their time and resources during the ongoing cost of living crisis, a testament to their deep-rooted belief in service and compassion.
By 3:00 pm, the youth had congregated at the local mosque, ready to take over the baton. They carefully packed the meals, which included pasta, drinks, biscuits, cookies, and crisps, ensuring that each bag was filled with not just food but also a message of hope and solidarity.
The operation then moved to Central London. In a well-orchestrated effort, the youth loaded the food bags into five cars and drove from Hounslow to Knightsbridge.
There, they split into groups, each assigned specific areas in Central London. For over two hours, they navigated the streets, reaching out to those in dire need, offering not just sustenance but also a moment of human connection. This act of kindness was deeply rooted in the teachings of Islam. The Holy Quran states, “And they feed, for the love of Him, the indigent, the orphan, and the captive” (76:8), a verse that encapsulates the spirit of compassion and charity. Similarly, a Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasises this duty: “He is not a believer who eats his fill while his neighbour is hungry.”
The initiative by the AMYA resonates with the core British values of community support, especially during challenging times. Their actions served as a beacon of love, peace, and compassion, setting an exemplary standard of conduct within the community.
As the day concluded, the impact of their efforts was evident not just in the gratitude of those they helped, but also in the strengthened sense of purpose within each volunteer. The AMYA’s dedication to serving humanity, driven by the profound teachings of Islam, continues to inspire and motivate, reminding us all of the power of community and the universal language of compassion.