Students from the Muslim community at the University of Regina have united to provide more than 100 winter care packages and hot meals to individuals experiencing homelessness across the city. Volunteers delivered the supplies by foot and vehicle, starting their efforts outside the Carmichael Outreach center.
Collaborative Community Effort
This outreach initiative stems from a partnership of six campus and local groups, including the Muslim Medical Association of Canada, Saskatchewan Arabs Society, Muslim Professionals Society, Islamic Relief at the University of Regina, and One Faith Foundation. The event, which assembles and distributes these essential items, has become an annual tradition spanning several years.
Participants draw inspiration from their faith, emphasizing the importance of community support. Bushra Alzawaid, a first-year student at the University of Regina, explained, “This act is part of the Islamic pillars called Zakaat, which essentially means giving back to the community through charity.”
Expanding Reach and Future Plans
Now in its third year in Regina and fifth in Saskatoon, the program continues to grow. Following this weekend’s activities in Regina, organizers plan to replicate the effort in Saskatoon next weekend. As Ramadan approaches, the students aim to host additional events that align with their Islamic values of generosity and service.
