(LEFT: Volunteers unload bags of vegetables for distribution to needy residents at Baltimore's Day of Dignity event. Photo courtesy of Zakia Amin.)
As Baltimore continues to recover from the unrest and the substandard living conditions that many of its residents have to endure, the Muslim community has remained at the forefront of ensuring that the community receives basic needs. On September 12, 2015, Islamic Relief USA, in conjunction with Muslim Social Services Agency hosted Day of Dignity in Baltimore at Masjid Ul-Haqq, the largest masjid in Inner-City Baltimore. Day of Dignity is a national event that that Islamic Relief sponsors in 18 locations across the U.S. to help those in need.
Despite the intermittent rain, IRUSA and MSSA distributed toiletries, hygiene kits, socks and t-shirts to over 400 Baltimore residents. The supplies were packed and distributed by more than 70 committed volunteers that included students from the Islamic Community School, Johns Hopkins University Graduate MSA, Job Corps participants, and other community members.
Over 10,000 pounds of fresh vegetables were distributed in a matter of a few hours. “Many sections of Baltimore are food deserts, and the citizens do not have access to quality fresh food, or the food is too expensive or of poor quality. It makes me feel good to be able to distribute healthy food”, a volunteer noted. Hot, fresh spaghetti meals were also distributed from under a tent, and people could eat the meals on the spot or take them home. After eating her meal, one woman exclaimed, “Tell the cook that I said that was the best spaghetti I’ve ever tasted in my life!”
Over 200 brand new book bags and school supplies were provided by the Zakat Foundation and ICNA Relief. James, a father of six, commented “I did not have money to buy school supplies for my six children. It’s a blessing that you all are looking out for us and giving us what we need.” Along with receiving school supplies, children were also engaged in arts and crafts activities throughout the day.
Health agencies and practitioners provided blood pressure screening, and information about health insurance plans, children’s health, and healthy homes free of pollutants. The Center for Urban Families presented their successful job training, responsible fatherhood, and healthy family programs to the community. Financial counseling sessions were conducted by Be Bilal.
Imam Hassan Amin, Executive Director of MSSA, summed up the day. “Day of Dignity is a time for the Muslims to show the Baltimore and the community what Islaam is all about, caring for our neighbors and the less fortunate. We have to give them resources for a better tomorrow on a regular basis. That is our duty to mankind that we must fulfill.”
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