April 27, 2020 - 2161 views
Local foodbanks in Conwy have received a welcome boost thanks to the generosity of the Conwy Islamic Society in Llandudno Junction.
To mark the start of Ramadan, an important religous period in the Muslim calendar, members of the community have rallied round to ensure that local families continue to receive support at this very difficult time.
The importance of local foodbanks have increased significantly in Conwy county during the last few years and in the wake of the Coronavirus crisis, many have struggled to keep up with demand from hard-pressed residents.
Represented by local Councillor and businessman Abdul Khan, members donated two pallets of supplies to foodbanks at Old Colwyn, Sure Hope Church, Abergele, Llanrwst, Llanfairfechan and Penmaenmawr.
Kai Davies, one of the organisers of the Old Colwyn Foodbank said the donation was a welcome boost and a lovely gesture at such an important time for members of the Society.
"For the Conwy Islamic Society to help us all at this very difficult time has been very touching and we are very grateful for all the support and generosity that they have shown all our foodbanks.
"This will help many local families who have no choice other than to turn to charity and help during these sad times."
Abdul Khan said; "The Ramadan is a holy month for Muslim people and every able adult Muslim should fast from dawn to sun set for a month to feel the hunger, that less fortunate human being experiences regularly and it also helps to purify one’s soul.
"The Conwy Islamic Society members regularly donates food to the community here and abroad, during the holy month it is more rewarding to make donations collectively.
"I am pleased to have distributed foods to six different food banks on behalf of “The Conwy Islamic Society” along with North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Mr Arfon Jones.
"My sincere thanks goes to those hard working volunteers who is working tirelessly to make sure the Food parcel are reaching the needy people of our community."
North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Arfon Jones said he was delighted. “I can only thank the Muslim community for such an amazing initiative and for showing such wonderful support to foodbanks across Conwy.
“The Muslim community is often misunderstood but acts of community spirited kindness such as this shows we have far more in common than that which divides us.
“I was delighted to go along to the distribution point in Llanrwst and help load food stuffs for foodbanks.
“The Covid-19 health crisis we are experiencing means many foodbanks are simply getting far less food donated than they were before the pandemic took hold.
“Of course. while they are seeing donations diminish demand is growing as people are struggling to buy the basic foodstuffs they need on a daily basis .
“ I’d ask everyone to donate what they can when they can. Every donation no matter how big or small will make a difference.”
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims partcipate in fasting and will not eat or drink between dawn and sunset.
This is important as it allows Muslims to devote themselves to their faith and come closer to Allah, or God.
