Flood victims in Pakistan reach to receive food in the Muzaffargarh district of Punjab. The area in Pakistan that is under water as of late August is greater than the state of Illinois. More than 20 million have been affected by the worst flooding in Pakistan’s history. 1,600 have died and millions are homeless, sick and hungry. The disaster is greater than the Tsunami and Haiti earthquake combined yet relief is slow in reaching the victims. Chicago Muslims have left no stone unturned to help their brothers and sisters in flood-ravaged Pakistan. The Council launched a “Save Pakistan” texting campaign. Council-members Islamic Relief, IMANA, Zakat Foundation and ICNA’s Helping Hands mobilized the community to send online and in-kind donations. Some held fundraising iftars while others boxed food items to be sent via PIA. The troubles are far from over with diarrhea, malnutrition and water-borne diseases on the rise. It may take up to several years to recover from this devastation. This Eid, remember those who are drinking contaminated water and watching their loved ones die. Give as much as you can and then some. Keep up the momentum of donations even after Ramadan and Eid. The people in Pakistan are counting on you.
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