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