Community Raises Money to Support Muslim Family After Tragic House Fire
Over the past weekend, the tight-knit community of Oldham demonstrated their solidarity by coming together to generate financial support for a Muslim family that faced an unimaginable tragedy due to a devastating house fire.
On Sunday, August 6, a compassionate assembly of 60 individuals, encompassing men, women, and children, embarked on a meaningful journey from Oldham to Manchester. Their purpose was resolute: to stand by the side of a grief-stricken Muslim family who, in the wake of a fatal house fire, found themselves stripped of all they possessed.
The collective effort of this compassionate group culminated in an impressive fundraising achievement, with an astounding £20,000 amassed. This sum is intended to serve as a lifeline for Sadia Shafiq's bereaved family, who were left reeling from the heartache of losing her life in June during the tragic fire incident. Additionally, the fire left Sadia Shafiq's daughter hospitalized with severe burns, casting a shadow of pain over the family's ordeal.
Remarkably, the walk saw the poignant presence of two out of the three surviving members of Sadia Shafiq's family, underscoring the profound impact of the support extended by the community. Their united stride signified both resilience and compassion, painting a heartwarming picture of togetherness in the face of adversity.
“All three ward councilors including Shoaib Akhtar, Fida Hussain and Nyla Ibrahim were also part of the walk which went to the local fire station on Hollins Road as its first pit stop whom the family were grateful for their swift response,” Afruz Miah, BEM, said, The Oldham Times reported.
“We then walked a total of 10km all the way to the fire station in Manchester.
“The aim of the campaign is to raise funds in support of the surviving siblings with re-housing, healthcare, educational support and general wellbeing which will be monitored by the charity Global Relief Trust.
“The support of the community has been phenomenal. Thirty local businesses who have sponsored the walkers t-shirts raised £6,000 alone.”
Cllr Fida Hussain added: “I’m pleased to be here in support of the grieving family.
“Hopefully Sadia’s daughter recovers quickly. It is nice to see so many people coming out in support. Every penny raised will go directly to the family.”
Source: Agencies
