The South African National Zakah Fund (SANZAF) has had a busy few days as its volunteers countrywide put in extra hours for the annual fitrah programme. The initiative aims to assist families on the cape flats who living under dire conditions, many who cannot afford a simple meal on Eid ul-Fitr. This year, the team was at the Bridgetown Masjid conducting their symbolic packing session.

“This is the last few days of Ramadaan. We encouraging families to come and also reap the reward. Every little effort you do, especially during these last few days will be rewarded Insha-Allah,” said project co-ordinator, Inshaaf Osmond.

Osmond called on residents to donate their fitrah as earliest as they can, to ensure that all families are able to have a warm meal on Eid.

“Our fitrah parcels include 22 items from sweets, biscuits, pastry, butter, rice, masala oil and basically all the necessities needed to make a hearty meal along with treats for the family to enjoy. In our communities, the poverty situation is dire. At least on Eid, we want to ensure that these families have something to share at the table,” Osmond added.

Operation Fitrah is one of the vital annual relief projects undertaken by SANZAF. The campaign has shown significant growth in both magnitude and effectiveness over the past 41 years. This year SANZAFwill distribute more than R5 million in nutritional food, fresh produce and canned goods at the end of Ramadan
Approximately 23 000 families across South Africa will be helped on the day of Eid–ul-Fitr.

Operation Fitrah is conducted over a three-month period and includes the individual assessment of families and home visits to verify the eligibility of recipients.
SANZAF considers referrals from other agencies and has been involved in partnerships with institutions and organisations for over 40 years.

“The success of the project is based on an interactive approach, which includes planning and networking with individuals and groups that enable SANZAF to accomplish goals that could not be achieved alone.”

In addition, SANZAF hosted a special programme on Sunday at the Pinelands Masjied to inform the broader community on the understanding of Zakah.

“Without the community and our contributor, the reward is the same Insha-Allah. A reminder to the public, this year the Fitra amount is R30 and the amount for Fidiyah is R15,” Osmond continued.

For more information on how you can assist, call 021 638 0965 or 0861 726 923. VOC