Today was a day full of smiles. The children eagerly received gifts, each one bringing excitement and curiosity as they unwrapped their surprises. Receiving a gift is more than just a moment of fun it’s a reminder to these children that they are seen, cared for, and valued. Even small items can spark immense joy, creating memories that linger long after the wrapping paper is gone. The experience also brings a sense of togetherness. Children exchange smiles, stories, and grati

During my recent visit to North Cyprus, I stepped into one of the island’s most extraordinary landmarks: the Selimiye Mosque in Lefkoşa. It’s a place where history, faith, and architecture blend in a way that almost stops time. Walking up to it, you immediately feel the weight of centuries. The towering structure, originally built as the Cathedral of Saint Sophia in the 13th century, still carries the unmistakable aura of a grand medieval church. When the Ottomans took contro

In Gaza, a simple gesture can spark unforgettable moments. Recently, children in the community were gifted fresh fruits, apples, bananas, oranges, and strawberries by the Lily Jay Foundation, turning an ordinary day into one filled with laughter and joy. For many of these children, fresh fruit is a rare treat. Watching them bite into sweet apples, peel bananas, and share slices of juicy oranges, it was impossible not to feel the happiness radiating from their faces. Every smi

This week, rain finally fell over Gaza. Alhamdulillah! However... For families living in tents, the rain was both a blessing and a hardship. The downpour was heavy. Tents flooded. Bedding got soaked. Children shivered as water ran underneath them. Plus, no way to collect the rainwater to drink, despite the desperate need for clean water. Alhamdulillah for the rain… but for families here, it brought no relief. The people continue to endure with sabr that leaves us humbled. May

In the quiet halls of a supported partner facility in the Philippines, a remarkable scene unfolds each day. Children gather together, their eyes focused, voices gentle yet confident, as they recite verses from the Holy Qur'an. The atmosphere is filled with a sense of peace and reverence, a beautiful reminder that even amidst hardship, faith and learning can flourish. For these young hearts, the words they speak are more than daily lessons; they are a source of comfort, guidan

What is an animal sacrifice in Islam? Animal sacrifice is a timeless form of charity in Islam that feeds the poor, strengthens community bonds, and expresses devotion to Allah. The Qur’an instructs believers about sacrifice: “So pray to your Lord and sacrifice [to Him alone].” (Surah Al-Kawthar 108:2 فَصَلِّ لِرَبِّكَ وَانْحَرْ). There are different contexts in which an animal may be sacrificed: Qurbānī / Udḥiyah (أضحية) — the ritual sacrifice at Eid al-Adha. ʿAqīqah (عقيقة)