Islamic Relief has been extending support to underprivileged families struggling to afford meat throughout the year, by providing qurbani meat during Eid Al Adha. This tradition has been in place since 1991, coinciding with the commencement of our operations in Bangladesh. As part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring access to qurbani meat, Islamic Relief Bangladesh will be sacrificing over 2000 cows across more than 32 districts nationwide this year, including for the FDMNs residing in Cox’s Bazar and Bhashan Char. Each individual will receive 2 kg of fresh meat to share with their families.
Golapi Begum, an elderly widow from a remote village in Saghta sub-district of Gaibandha district, was among the recipients of qurbani meat distribution programme for 2023. She supports a large family of 9 members, relying on the seasonal income of her sons engaged in agricultural work. Golapi shared, “With daily rising prices, meeting our basic needs, let alone affording meat, has become increasingly challenging. We used to manage poultry, but even that is now beyond our reach. Qurbani is the sole occasion each year when meat graces our table.”
Asoba a Rohigya refugee lives in Bhashan Char says,” My children love meat a lot. Unfortunately, as a widowed refugee without any income or employment on Bhashan Char, the idea of affording meat is simply beyond imagination. The greatest challenge for my family is ensuring three meals a day of rice and lentils. Although we do receive food assistance, the cost of meat is still out of reach for impoverished individuals like us.”
Islamic Relief’s longstanding commitment to supporting underprivileged families with access to meat during Eid Al Adha has brought solace and sustenance to countless individuals like Golapi Begum and Asoba. As we embark on another year of sacrifice and service, our efforts resonate deeply with those facing economic hardships, ensuring that the spirit of generosity and compassion extends to all corners of society. Through initiatives like qurbani meat distribution, we strive to alleviate the burdens of poverty and nourish the hearts and bodies of those in need, embodying the essence of humanitarianism and solidarity.