BURBANK, California (September 22, 2005) – Responding to two recent crises,
Chicagoland Muslims are holding a benefit dinner for victims of Hurricane
Katrina, as well as the food crisis in West Africa, where millions of people are
facing starvation.
The Hurricane Katrina disaster has thus far left over one million people
displaced and will require the largest relief effort in U.S. history.
Islamic Relief has already allocated $2 million of the $10 million pledged by
MHRTF, the Muslim Hurricane Relief Task Force which was formed in the
Katrina aftermath. Islamic Relief is focusing its efforts on helping victims in
Baton Rouge, LA, Houston, TX, and the Gulf Coast of Mississippi.
Over 5 million people face starvation in Niger and Mali due to the current
crisis, caused by drought and a locust infestation. This includes over 800,000
children, out of which 150,000 might face death unless immediate aid is
delivered.
Islamic Relief is working on the ground with field offices in both Niger and Mali,
and it aims to help over one million people through food distribution and
medical aid.
Included in the program will also be a video presentation featuring Islamic
Relief projects to help victims of both crises.
Media professionals are invited to attend the event. Please present your
press pass at the registration table.
WHAT:
Benefit Dinner for Victims of Hurricane Katrina and West Africa Food Crisis
WHEN:
Saturday, September 24, 2005
6:00 pm
WHERE:
Islamic Foundation
300 W Highridge Rd
Villa Park, IL 60181
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Media Contact:
M. Misbah Shahid
Islamic Relief
misbah@irw.org
(734) 673-9430 mobile
(714) 676-1301 fax