Islamic Relief distributes gifts to orphans for Eid al-Fitr

BURBANK, California (November 13, 2004) – On behalf of Islamic Relief

Worldwide, our staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries across the globe, we

would like to wish you a blessed Eid al-Fitr.

Eid al-Fitr is the culmination of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, during

which 1.2 billion Muslims across the world abstain from food and drink from

dawn until dusk. Muslims also increase their good deeds, and their devotion to

God by attending their local Mosques for prayers, and increasing their charity.

During this blessed time of Eid al-Fitr, Islamic Relief offices around the world

help the less fortunate enjoy this joyous holiday by distributing toys and gifts

to orphans and needy children in more than twenty countries across the

globe.

Many Muslims opt to donate their zakah (mandatory alms charity, calculated

at 2.5% of one’s total wealth) during this month due to increased rewards.

Islamic Relief helps facilitate this request by rapidly processing their donations

and distributing aid to the needy during Ramadan.

Also mandatory for Muslims before the end of Ramadan is Zakat al-Fitr,

charity which must be paid before the Eid al-Fitr prayers in order for one’s

fasting to count. Zakat al-Fitr is equal to to approximately $8-$10, or the

amount a person would pay for himself for one meal. Islamic Relief also

faciliates this request by processing Zakat al-Fitr donations, and using it to

distribute food to needy people across the world, fulfilling the request of its

donors.

Once again, we wish you a peaceful and blessed Eid al-Fitr.

Arif Shaikh from Islamic Relief USA is available for comment or interview

regarding Eid al-Fitr, as well as Islamic Relief projects for the needy during

this holiday.

**Note: Most Muslims in the United States are celebrating Eid al-Fitr on

Sunday, November 14.