Recent

‘Freedom is everything’: A refugee in Greece tells her story

Summary

  • In recent years, thousands of people in Turkey have fled their homes to escape unjust persecution and find freedom and a new start in Greece.
  • Read the story of Mugle, who was forced to make the most difficult decision of her life: leaving her life behind and fleeing her country while pregnant.
  • Learn how you can support Embrace Relief’s mission to provide housing, ensuring vulnerable refugees like Mugle can live safe lives as they pursue their freedom.

The day that Mugle and her husband learned she was pregnant with the couple’s first child should have been the happiest moment of their lives. Instead, it was the catalyst that spurred them to leave their homeland of Turkey in search of freedom.

The couple had been facing unjust persecution in the country for more than four years. Mugle’s husband, an accountant, had been jailed by authorities in 2016. Mugle herself would soon be a target of police, forcing her to take refuge in her own home for years. It was a time of profound loneliness. Mugle woke up every day facing the prospect of jail time, and ostracization from loved ones.

“My family didn’t want to talk to me,” she said. “My siblings didn’t want to talk to me. They were scared to talk to us. It’s such a terrifying feeling, not being able to talk to your family. It’s awful. You have to stand up to all of this alone and fight for your life.”

In 2020, Mugle and her husband discovered the joyous news that they were expecting a baby girl. She resolved, then and there, that there was no possibility that their daughter could ever safely grow up in Turkey. Knowing that further harassment awaited her if she stayed, she left her home and journeyed to the Meric River – the border between Turkey and Greece.

Becoming a refugee is one of the most difficult actions anyone can take. When Mugle made the dangerous crossing of the Meric, she left her entire life behind. She would be starting over, alone, in a country whose culture she did not share, whose language she did not speak. But she did so because it was her only chance at freedom.

There are thousands of refugees who have undergone experiences similar to Mugle’s. It is why Embrace Relief has pledged its support for these brave, freedom-seeking families in Greece, providing housing assistance, food, clothes, translators, educational services and legal aid. Mugle’s story is one of the Untold Stories of Refugees in Greece, and highlights the importance of community, solidarity, and material support for our most vulnerable friends.

Freedom is everything: A refugee in Greece tells her story

‘Without them, we would have so many more struggles’

Upon arriving in Greece, Mugle gave birth to a healthy baby girl. But, as was the case during the worst times in Turkey, she was alone. Her husband had traveled on to another country, hoping to be able to support the family. But she would discover that this refugee community, and its related aid organizations like Embrace Relief, was stronger than what she had left behind.

The critical support she – and thousands of people like her – have received has made it possible to live relatively normal lives. It has given her the stability she and her family need, and will eventually allow them to reunite and thrive in their permanent home.

“[The associations] make us feel like we are not alone,” she says, clutching her daughter while speaking to an Embrace Relief representative in her apartment. “We really appreciate all of your help and support. Without them, we would have so many more struggles. Greece does not offer anything to refugees, like financial support.”

She added that one of the things that brought her the most joy was seeing the faces of children after receiving food packages with treats. Their smiles, she says, demonstrate “the love that we feel from your hearts.”

Mugle, who has been in Greece for more than 2 years awaiting reunification with her husband, hopes that her story can inspire feelings of mercy, which she described as “the most important part of being a human being.” She is forever grateful for the mercy shown to her and her daughter by Embrace Relief and the refugee community at large in Greece. And she is hopeful that support will continue to pour in for those people who, like her, risked it all to be free.

“Freedom represents everything in life,” she said. “That is why I’m here. That is why I took the risk of death with my children to be here.”

Freedom is everything: A refugee in Greece tells her story

Donate today and support Refugees in Greece

Embrace Relief has supported thousands of refugees in Greece in recent years, providing much-needed financial assistance to families in their time of greatest need.

If you are inspired by the stories of brave women like Mugle, we ask you to consider donating to help these vulnerable families secure their freedom. Finding and paying for housing are by far the two biggest challenges for refugees in Greece, and your gift can ensure that families have a stable, safe living environment as they rebuild their lives.

Donate today using the box below and help us tell the Untold Stories of Refugees in Greece!

Donate For Untold Stories of Refugees in Greece

$
Donate Now

Can I drink water during Ramadan?

Summary

  • Read on to learn about how the Ramadan fast can impact your hydration levels, and how it can impact your body if you do not plan ahead.
  • Find out the best ways to stay hydrated during your Ramadan fast while still maintaining your spiritual dedication.
  • Learn more about how you can help others stay healthy during the holy month by giving the gift of clean water to those in need.

As Muslims around the world prepare for the holy month of Ramadan, many may be wondering about a critical concern: hydration during fasting hours. The Ramadan fast is a critical aspect of this time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline and faith. Understanding how to take care of your body during this period will ensure that your physical, mental and spiritual health remains intact through Eid and beyond.

If you are one of the many people who have questions about Ramadan fasting rules about water intake, read on to learn more. This guide will provide you with information about how much water you can consume without compromising the integrity of your Ramadan fast, as well as tips that will help you stay hydrated each day in alignment with Islamic principles.

When can you drink water during Ramadan?

Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for overall health and well-being at all times. But during Ramadan, when food and drink is prohibited between sunrise and sunset, it is even more important to be mindful of your body’s hydration needs. Normally, adults are recommended to take in between 3-4 liters of water (approximately 12-16 cups) each day. This includes the approximately 20% of our water intake that comes from the food we eat. This recommendation remains true during Ramadan. But studies show that Muslims observing the fast take in significantly less water than during the rest of the year, likely because of the limited time in which we can eat and drink each day.

Without proper planning and mindfulness, we run the risk of chronic dehydration throughout the holy month. Dehydration can lead to a range of health issues, including headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and in severe cases, can even impact cognitive function. Considering these potential health risks, it’s essential to strike a balance fasting requirements and proper hydration.

Can I drink water during Ramadan?

6 tips for staying hydrated while fasting during Ramadan

Here are some tips for how you can stay healthy and hydrated throughout the Ramadan fast:

1. Pace your water intake between sunset and sunrise

With a limited amount of time in which you can eat and drink, be smart about how you manage your water intake. Setting a routine centered around iftar, suhoor and your sleep schedule can ensure that you are staying consistently hydrated. A good rule of thumb is to set a consumption goal of eight glasses (whether it be of water or other beverages) each night, spreading it out to maximize absorption. Studies suggest that keeping to a “4-2-2” pattern – that is, four glasses with the iftar meal, two glasses during the night, and two glasses with the suhoor meal – is an optimal way to ensure you’re receiving adequate hydration.

2. Eat water-rich foods

We often take for granted how much water is found in many of the foods we eat, but it plays a big role in keeping us healthy! Be sure to plan ahead and incorporate water-rich fruits and vegetables – such as dates, watermelons, strawberries, oranges, asparagus, zucchini and cucumbers – into each meal. The water hidden in these foods will help you build up and replenish your hydration levels.

3. Consider electrolyte-rich foods and drinks

In addition to water-rich foods, you should also make a point of consuming foods and drinks rich in electrolytes – important minerals your body needs, such as sodium, potassium and magnesium – which help regulate the body and maintain proper hydration. Examples of these foods and drinks include bananas (potassium), yogurt (potassium and sodium), coconut milk (potassium and magnesium), and green vegetables, lentils and almonds (magnesium).

Can I drink water during Ramadan?

4. Make your suhoor count

Start your day with a well-balanced suhoor that includes hydrating foods and drinks, such as the ones listed above. It’s your last opportunity to prepare your body for a lengthy period without nourishment. Putting some thought into your pre-dawn meal will ensure that you remain operating at peak performance throughout the day.

5. Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks

A tasty tea or coffee might be tempting in the morning, or after a day of fasting. But it’s advisable to limit – if not eliminate entirely – caffeinated beverages during the holy month. Caffeine is a diuretic and can contribute to dehydration. Additionally, be cautious with sugary drinks as they can lead to increased thirst. While an occasional caffeinated or sugary beverage is OK, moderation is key.

6. Listen to your body

These tips are intended to be general guidelines. Above all, you should pay attention to your body’s signals. Thirst is a natural response, and it’s essential to respond to it. However, continuous, excessive thirst may indicate dehydration. If you experience symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or fatigue, consider making adjustments to your routines.

Share blessings and clean water this Ramadan with Embrace Relief

As you prepare for Ramadan, remember that proper hydration is not only allowed but also crucial for a fulfilling and healthy fasting experience. By integrating these tips into your daily routine, you can navigate the fasting hours with spiritual dedication and physical well-being. May this guide contribute to a Ramadan filled with blessings, reflection, and optimal hydration for you and your loved ones. If you’ve found this post helpful, we’d like now to ask you to share your own blessings with people in need.

In Africa, more than 300 million people live without a reliable, safe source of drinking water. Many of these 300 million source their water from unprotected rivers, lakes, ponds and holes in the ground, meaning every drink could carry dangerous diseases. Imagine a full day’s fast without the satisfaction of that first sip of cold, crisp, refreshing clean water at iftar: this is how millions of people live every single day.

Since 2013, Embrace Relief has sought to change this by building and reconstructing water wells throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Our wells are providing reliable clean water to more than 850,000 people in Chad, Cameroon, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya, and the impact of these wells has been beyond description: significantly reduced levels of waterborne diseases, increased economic prosperity, and women and girls empowered to achieve in the classroom and in business.

During this time of reflection and faith, we at Embrace Relief are asking for your help to bring clean water to even more communities in Africa. Donate to our Clean Water Initiative by using the form below, and share your blessings with some of our friends who most need them.

Donate For Hunger Relief

$
Donate Now

Why Should I Donate To Charity?

Summary

  • Donating to charity helps nourish our soul with the knowledge that we’re making an impact on the lives of people in need.
  • Donating to charity also has practical benefits for you, your community, and your family.
  • Read on to learn more about how you can make a difference in the world by supporting Embrace Relief’s humanitarian causes.

In a world full of challenges and inequality, the act of donating to charity stands as a beacon of hope that resonates far beyond simply giving one’s money, time or goods. Supporting charities not only addresses pressing societal issues but also brings about personal fulfillment and satisfaction. The act of donating to charity often offers practical benefits, such as tax deductions, providing additional incentives to support worthy causes. Additionally, leading by example through charitable actions not only inspires others to follow suit but also fosters a culture of generosity and empathy within communities.

Donating to charity is not just a benevolent act: it’s a transformative force for good. That’s why, if you’re considering making a monetary gift to a reputable nonprofit charity, we would like to share five compelling ways that your donation will make a difference.

Because I will make an impact on people’s lives

Donating to charity enables individuals to contribute to causes they care about, creating a positive impact on society and different groups of people. When we give to a reputable charitable organization, we are supporting initiatives that address critical issues such as poverty alleviation, hunger relief, natural disaster relief, education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and more. Our contribution, no matter the size, can make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Because I will feel good

Donating to charity can give you a sense of purpose, personal fulfillment, and happiness. Studies show that acts of kindness, such as charitable giving, are associated with increased happiness and satisfaction. We are naturally empathetic towards others, and so when we see our actions result in another person’s happiness – like when we feed a hungry person, or provide a community with clean water for the very first time – we feel a profound sense of joy and satisfaction. We all think of ourselves as good people, and by donating money to a charitable organization, we show that we care.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals: The 5 P’s of a Sustainable Future

Because I will make my community stronger

Donating to a local charity near me is an important way to uplift and empower our communities. Charitable organizations will often provide funding and services that are necessary for people of all ages, abilities, and economic status. For example, in Embrace Relief’s community in northern New Jersey, we provide fresh produce and food to families who can’t afford them; we also support underprivileged students by giving them the supplies they need to learn. Whether it’s funding for after-school programs, homeless shelters, food banks, or cultural initiatives, local charitable donations enhance a community’s quality of life and create a sense of cohesion and belonging for all.

Because I will receive tax benefits

Aside from the inherent emotional rewards, giving to charity can also have practical financial advantages. In the United States, when you donate to a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization like Embrace Relief, your gift is tax-deductible, allowing you to reduce your taxable income and pay less on your next tax bill. Not only is this good for you, it’s good for charities, because tax-deductible donations provide a financial incentive for people to support their causes.

Because I want to set a good example

The act of giving sets a powerful example for others. When individuals lead by example through their charitable actions, it inspires a ripple effect of kindness and generosity among their network of friends, families, coworkers and colleagues, as well as members of the broader community. When one person makes a difference and helps people, it can inspire others to follow suit. By demonstrating compassion and empathy, individuals can contribute to creating a culture where giving back is celebrated and embraced.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals: The 5 P’s of a Sustainable Future

Donating to charity isn’t just a financial transaction. It is an essential element of what it means to be human. When we give to help others, we demonstrate that we are all connected, and that we can all lift each other up if we work together. It is a testament to the belief that every single one of us has the power to effect positive change.

This is true whether you’re a billionaire like Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos, or if you’re a family trying to juggle the everyday expenses that we all deal with. Every donation to a reputable charitable organization, no matter how small, represents a small step towards building a better world.

If you’re looking to uplift someone today, you can do so right here on this page, thanks to Embrace Relief! We have eight humanitarian relief programs that have supported millions of people in need since 2008. Our work provides the most basic necessities of life for families across the world, including right here in the United States. But we rely on the generosity of people like you to keep going.

Learn more about our eight humanitarian relief programs by clicking here, or donate directly to our general organizational fund in the box below. Your tax-deductible donation will help our team continue to make life better for our most vulnerable friends and neighbors.

Donate to Embrace Relief

If you would like to support Embrace Relief’s mission of bringing humanitarian relief to the world’s most vulnerable, please consider a donation in the amount of your choosing below:

Empower Lives This Ramadan: Donate to Build Water Wells in Africa

Summary

  • Ramadan 2024 is coming soon, and this represents a time of sacrifice and charity towards others.
  • This is the time of year when we all come together to give what we can, in order to provide people with basic needs like food and clean water.
  • In this spirit, learn how you can make an impact this Ramadan by supporting Embrace Relief’s clean water well programs in Africa.

The month of Ramadan is a time of reflection, prayer, and charity, and holds profound significance for billions of people in nearly every country around the world. With Ramadan 2024 set to commence after sundown on Sunday, March 10, now is the perfect time to embrace the spirit of compassion and generosity. There are all sorts of ways we, as individuals, can make a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need. One way you can embody the essence of charity during this blessed time is to give clean water to the people of Africa through Embrace Relief!

Access to clean water is a basic human need, yet more than 300 million people in sub-Saharan Africa live constantly with water scarcity. In countless villages and towns, people have lived for years with their only sources of drinking water coming from unprotected rivers, lakes, ponds, or simple holes in the ground filled with rainwater. This water often contains human, animal and industrial waste, and poses immense challenges to the lives and livelihoods of all.

Drinking unprotected water puts millions of people at risk for harmful waterborne diseases like cholera, dysentery, and diarrhea. These diseases especially affect children; waterborne diseases are the fourth-leading cause of death in children under 5 worldwide. When water is not plentiful, farmers are unable to grow enough food to sustain their communities and sell to others, increasing hunger and depressing the local economy. Women and girls must spend hours each day walking to these imperfect sources of water, gathering water and carrying it back to sustain their families. This often results in physical injuries, and the time-consuming responsibility leads to higher rates of girls dropping out of school, and prevents women from taking care of their families or entering the workforce.

The solution to these issues is clear: there are vast amounts of clean water in sub-Saharan Africa. However, it is mostly found below ground, and must be access by pipes drilled into the ground. This is too expensive of a project for most small, rural communities in developing countries like Chad, Cameroon, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya. But with the help of organizations like Embrace Relief, generous donors like you can help us transform lives this Ramadan, by ensuring access to safe and sustainable water!

Empower Lives This Ramadan: Donate to Build Water Wells in Africa

Leave a Legacy of Hope this Ramadan

Since 2013, Embrace Relief has embarked on an ambitious program of building new water wells and reconstructing abandoned wells in Africa. To date, we have built or reconstructed more than 850 wells, providing clean water to nearly 1 million people! In every community where we’ve worked, we have seen the joy and the immense progress brought on by each new water well. People live longer, healthier lives. Children are more likely to finish their education. Villages begin to develop and grow on their own thanks to the prosperity and abundance brought by their well. A water well doesn’t just provide this crucial basic need: it empowers a community to thrive.

This Ramadan, seize the opportunity to embody the spirit of giving by contributing to Embrace Relief’s Clean Water Initiative. The principles of Ramadan – empathy, solidarity, and selflessness – resonate profoundly with this program. Each donation, no matter its size, creates a ripple effect of positive change, purifying your wealth while uplifting those less fortunate.

Imagine the impact of your generosity — a single newly-built well costs just $3,950, and a reconstructed Fountain of Hope costs $1,300. Each Embrace Relief well serves approximately 1,000 people every single day, for years to come. Your gift gives sustainable life to an entire community, and when added to the gifts of those who have donated before, we are creating a long-term legacy of hope and transformation.

Empower Lives This Ramadan: Donate to Build Water Wells in Africa

As you engage in acts of worship and reflection during Ramadan, consider the immense blessings in extending a helping hand to those in need. Donate to Embrace Relief’s Clean Water Initiative using the donation box below and become a beacon of hope for communities striving for a better tomorrow.

Your charity during Ramadan holds the power to transform lives and uplift communities. Act today and be a part of this noble cause!

Donate For Clean Water

$
Donate Now

How To Calculate Your Zakat

Summary

  • Muslims around the world will soon be fulfilling their Zakat obligations, donating a portion of their wealth to those most in need.
  • Use this guide to find out exactly what possessions and holdings count towards your Zakat obligation, and if your personal wealth meets the Zakat threshold.
  • Use Embrace Relief’s easy, free Zakat calculator to determine what you owe.
  • Then, we invite you to make your Zakat donation right here in support of one of Embrace Relief’s eight international humanitarian programs.

Zakat, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is a fundamental practice that emphasizes charity and generosity. Every Muslim adult of sound mind, who holds assets above a certain threshold, is obligated to give a portion of their wealth to those in need. Zakat is not just a form of charity; it is a compulsory act of worship and a means of purifying one’s wealth; the word Zakat itself is Arabic for “that which purifies.”

Calculating Zakat requires each person to do a thorough accounting of their income, assets and liabilities. If one’s total wealth (income plus assets minus liabilities) is greater than or equal to the Nisab, the minimum threshold for Zakat eligibility, then paying Zakat is obligatory. As of December 2023, the value of Nisab, based on the standard of 3 ounces of gold, is approximately $6,100.

If one owes Zakat in a given year, they must give 2.5% of their total wealth to poor people, or to organizations who work with the poor. Most Muslims make their Zakat donation during the month of Ramadan, but it can be done at any time of year, as long as it is given each lunar year. Donating Zakat serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the Muslim community and the importance of helping those less fortunate.

How do I determine my Zakat obligation for 2024?

Zakat is calculated on various forms of wealth, including savings, investments, gold, silver, and business profits. However, not all forms of wealth are subject to Zakat. Personal items such as a primary residence, clothing, and personal vehicles are exempt. Additionally, only surplus wealth, after deducting necessary expenses, is considered for Zakat calculation.

Here is a five-step process that will help you determine your Zakat obligation. We recommend using Embrace Relief’s free Zakat calculator as you progress through each step:

Determine Eligible Assets: dentify all assets that are subject to Zakat. Begin by identifying all cash on hand, including money in bank accounts, savings, and any other liquid assets. Any interest earned on savings should also be included. Next, determine the current market value of all gold and silver you own in any form, such as jewelry or coins. Then, calculate the current market value of any investments you have made, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or other tradable assets. Finally, if you own or part-own a business, add the value of your inventory, equipment and property.

How To Calculate Your Zakat

2) Deduct Liabilities: Calculate the amount of any outstanding debts or financial obligations you owe, and subtract this total from the total value of assets from step 1. Debts and obligations can include personal loans, mortgages, and business-related debts; it also includes personal bills – such as rent, utilities, insurance, medical bills, federal and state taxes, and others – that you owe prior to the Zakat due date.

3) Calculate your Zakat: After subtracting your liabilities from your assets, if the remaining total is equal to or exceeds the Nisab ($6,100 as of December 2023), then you must give Zakat. Multiply your remaining total by 2.5% to reveal the amount you owe – or use our Zakat calculator.

4) When to give your Zakat: While Zakat is an annual obligation that can be made at any time, it is recommended to give it during the month of Ramadan. Many Muslims choose to distribute their Zakat during this blessed month, as it holds spiritual significance and provides an opportunity for increased spiritual reward.

5) Where to give your Zakat: The Quran specifies that Zakat must be donated to one of eight specific groups of people: “for the poor and the needy and those who are in charge thereof, those whose hearts are to be reconciled, and to free those in bondage, and to help those burdened with debt, and for expenditure in the Way of Allah and for the wayfarer” (Al-Tawbah, 9:60). To put this another way, you may give directly to poor people in need, or you may give to a registered, reputable charity organization that distributes aid to the poor.

How To Calculate Your Zakat

Give your Zakat with Embrace Relief in 2024

Once you have calculated your obligation, we humbly ask you to consider giving your Zakat to Embrace Relief. We are an international humanitarian nonprofit charity with a 15-year track record of providing aid to the most vulnerable communities in the world. Our eight humanitarian programs have supported more than 7 million people since 2008 by providing food, water, disaster relief, healthcare, education, shelter and more in dozens of countries.

Paying Zakat is a sacred obligation, a fundamental pillar of Islamic faith that fosters compassion and solidarity within our communities. At Embrace Relief, we deeply understand the sanctity of this duty and the significance of your financial contribution. We assure you that your Zakat will be handled with utmost care, transparency, and responsibility, and that every penny you give will be directed towards aiding people most in need.

Click here to learn more about Embrace Relief’s dedicated programs that continue to help people every single day. Click here to use our free Zakat calculator and donate.

Your generosity will empower Embrace Relief to continue to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those less fortunate, as we continue to support communities and provide life-saving assistance where it’s needed most.

Donate Your Zakat Online

$
Donate Now

Build a water well in Africa? Why you don’t need to be Mr. Beast to help others

Summary

  • A recent viral video by YouTube sensation Mr. Beast showcased the building of 100 water wells in Africa, which provided clean water to tens of thousands of people.
  • Mr. Beast’s video spotlighted one of the world’s biggest humanitarian crises, with millions throughout Africa suffering because they lack an accessible, safe source of drinking water.
  • Read on to learn about how you can be a hero like Mr. Beast and deliver clean water to thousands of people in need in Africa with Embrace Relief.

In a world where influencers often make headlines for controversial reasons, it’s refreshing to see someone use their platform to make a truly impactful change in the world. Recently, the YouTube star Mr. Beast shared a video showcasing a project in which he funded the construction of 100 water wells in Africa. Mr. Beast’s remarkable act of generosity will not only benefit tens of thousands of people for years to come: it is also shedding light on the critical issue of water scarcity in many parts of Africa.

We take clean water for granted here in the United States, where the nearest source of clean water is typically no further away than the nearest kitchen sink or refrigerator. This is not so for more than 200 million people in sub-Saharan Africa. Untold numbers of people in this part of the world, especially in rural communities, subsist on water gathered from nearby lakes, rivers, ponds, or simply from holes in the ground that collect rainwater. These water sources are unprotected from contaminants, including human, animal and industrial waste. Because of this, sub-Saharan Africa suffers some of the highest rates of waterborne diseases – including diarrhea, cholera, typhoid and dysentery – in the world. Studies show a lack of clean water is linked closely with high child mortality rates, shorter life spans, lower school graduation rates, less food production, and less prosperous local economies.

The good news: building water wells can virtually eliminate all of these problems!

Unfortunately, building a well takes lots of hard work, heavy machinery and money: things that are often in short supply in less-prosperous areas of the world like Kenya, Tanzania, Cameroon and Chad. But it’s an investment with a truly inspirational impact! With a reliable water source, individuals can improve their health, sanitation, and overall quality of life. Children – especially young girls – can attend school regularly instead of spending hours fetching water, and communities can focus on agricultural production and economic activities, fostering growth and development.

Build a water well in Africa? Why you don’t need to be Mr. Beast to help others

With Embrace Relief, You Can Be A Clean Water Hero Too

Mr. Beast’s wonderful initiative will have a profoundly positive impact on hundreds of communities for generations to come, and we celebrate his generosity. But we also want you to know that you don’t need millions of YouTube subscribers to change lives in Africa: you can support Embrace Relief!

Embrace Relief has brought clean water to more than 850,000 people in Chad, Cameroon, Nigeria, Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda since 2013 through two programs responsible for more than 850 wells: our Clean Water Initiative, which builds new wells, and our Fountains of Hope project, which restores abandoned and broken wells. Click the links to learn all about the lives we’ve touched and the impact we’ve made.

If you’d like to make a difference like Mr. Beast, you can by donating to support these two excellent programs! Any donation amount will make a real difference in people’s lives. But if you are looking to make the biggest impact, you can build and name your own water well with a donation of:

  • $3,950 for a new water well
  • $1,300 for a reconstructed water well

Additionally, all wells (new and restored) come with a guaranteed five-year warranty covering all maintenance and part replacement.

Build a water well in Africa? Why you don’t need to be Mr. Beast to help others

By contributing to Embrace Relief’s clean water cause, you’re joining the mission to bring clean and safe water to the people who most need it. Your donation will transform entire communities, bringing hope, health, and economic development.

Just like Mr. Beast, you have the power to change lives and make a tangible difference in the world – and all it takes are just a few clicks right on this page! Join Embrace Relief and be a part of our journey to make clean water a reality for all!

Donate For Clean Water

$
Donate Now

When does Ramadan 2024 start and end?

Summary

  • Have you ever wondered why Ramadan 2024 starts on a different date than it did in 2023?
  • This guide will explain why the start and end dates of Ramadan shift each year, and detail the significance of the holy month.
  • Then, learn how you can exemplify the charitable, giving spirit of Ramadan by supporting Embrace Relief’s International Hunger Relief: Ramadan 2024 food distribution program.

Ramadan 2024 will be upon us before we know it. Muslims around the world eagerly anticipate the arrival of this sacred month, marked by fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. If you’re wondering about the timing of Ramadan in 2024, let’s delve into the specifics and the significance of this holiest month in Islam:

When is Ramadan 2024?

In 2024, Ramadan is expected to begin at sunset on Sunday, March 10. Ramadan 2024 will conclude with the Eid al-Fitr holiday, which begins at sunset on Tuesday, April 9. Ramadan’s start and end dates can vary slightly depending on location, based on the sightings of the moon and local customs.

Why is it so difficult to know when Ramadan starts? Because the start and end dates of Ramadan shift each year. Each occurrence of Ramadan is determined by the Islamic calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle, unlike the Gregorian calendar used in the United States. Because the lunar cycle is a bit shorter (about 29.5 days) compared to the typical 30- or 31-day Gregorian month, Ramadan’s start date moves forward in the secular calendar each year by roughly 11 days. For example, in 2025, Ramadan is expected to start on February 28.

Ramadan: A Time of Discipline and Growth

Ramadan holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims globally. During this month, Muslims commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad by fasting from dawn until sunset. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and serves as a means of self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and spiritual growth.

The days of Ramadan are characterized by increased worship, including the performance of special nightly prayers known as Taraweeh, recitation of the Quran, acts of charity (Zakat), and heightened devotion to prayer and reflection. The pre-dawn meal, Suhoor, and the evening meal to break the fast, Iftar, become special communal moments for families and communities.

When does Ramadan 2024 start and end

Muslims worldwide celebrate Ramadan with diverse traditions and cultural practices. Each region infuses its unique customs into the observance of this holy month. Ramadan’s spirit fosters unity, empathy, and generosity among believers, transcending geographical boundaries.

Make your Ramadan count by donating to Embrace Relief’s International Hunger Relief!

Here at Embrace Relief, we have our own Ramadan tradition, as this time of year is home to one of our annual International Hunger Relief campaigns.

Thanks to the generosity of donors like you during this time of charity and giving Embrace Relief has been able to deliver nutritious food packages and meals to nearly 100,000 people in over 15 countries over our last three International Hunger Relief: Ramadan campaigns. We aim to reach even more families in need during Ramadan 2024, but we can’t do it alone!

When does Ramadan 2024 start and end?

We believe that Ramadan is a time to share our blessings and food with people most in need, whether they live in the United States, Africa, Yemen, or as refugees in Greece. You can support this cause by donating right now to our International Hunger Relief: Ramadan campaign in the box below. With just a few clicks, you can ensure that children around the world will go to bed on a full stomach.

May this upcoming Ramadan be a time of immense blessings, spiritual growth, and communal harmony for all.

Donate For Hunger Relief

$
Donate Now

The UN Sustainable Development Goals: The 5 P’s of a Sustainable Future

Summary

  • The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2030 are broad frameworks for global cooperation towards making the world a more equitable, safer, and healthier place for future generations.
  • Importantly, the 17 SDGs are not isolated from one another. We can see how they interact when we think about the “5 P’s” of sustainable development.
  • Learn more about what the “5 P’s” are and how they can inspire us to collective action to meet humanity’s biggest challenges.

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) serve as a blueprint for a better and more sustainable future for all. This blueprint can be sprawling and challenging to understand, as it includes 17 Goals and hundreds of measurable targets to determine progress.

But it is perhaps easier to understand how the SDGs work together when we think about the “Five P’s” of sustainable development: People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnerships. Each “P” represents an overall theme that is fundamental when considering how we can make progress towards a more prosperous, healthier, and happier world, and each “P” is represented by multiple SDGs. In this way, we can see how closely related and interlocked each SDG is in achieving the outcomes envisioned by the UN’s Agenda 2030.

So, what are the “5 P’s”?

People:

At the core of the SDGs are the people, emphasizing the importance of social inclusion, equality, and human rights for all. This is the impetus for the SDGs which call for the eradication of poverty and hunger, the promotion of good health and well-being for all, and the achievement of quality education, gender equality, and access to clean water and sanitation. These goals work in tandem to create a world where everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, can live a dignified life.

People-focused initiatives include reducing inequality within and among countries, promoting decent work and economic growth, ensuring access to affordable and clean energy, and fostering sustainable cities and communities. By prioritizing people, the SDGs aim to leave no one behind, uplifting the most vulnerable populations and empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.

Planet:

The second “P” aspect underscores the urgency to protect our natural environment and address climate change. This is the impetus for SDGs calling for responsible consumption and production, climate action, conservation of biodiversity, sustainable management of forests and oceans, and efforts to combat desertification and land degradation. Preserving the planet’s resources and ecosystems is critical for current and future generations’ well-being.

Goals related to the planet focus on ensuring sustainable consumption patterns, taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, protecting and restoring ecosystems, promoting sustainable use of marine resources, and conserving biodiversity. By safeguarding the planet, the SDGs aim to ensure a healthy and resilient environment that can sustain life.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals: The 5 P’s of a Sustainable Future

Prosperity

The third “P” encompasses economic growth, without compromising social and environmental sustainability. This is the impetus for inclusive and sustainable economic development that benefits everyone. This includes ensuring access to affordable and clean energy, promoting industrial innovation and infrastructure, fostering innovation and sustainable industrialization, and reducing inequalities within and among countries.

SDGs related to prosperity involve ending poverty in all its forms, promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns, and building resilient infrastructure. Achieving prosperity under the SDGs means generating wealth and opportunities while preserving the planet’s resources for future generations.

Peace:

The fourth “P” is a prerequisite for sustainable development. It goes beyond the absence of conflict and encompasses building peaceful, just, and inclusive societies. This is the impetus for promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, providing access to justice for all, and building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.

Goals related to peace aim to reduce violence, end abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against children. They also focus on promoting the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensuring responsive, inclusive, participatory, and representative decision-making at all levels. Peace is essential for fostering social cohesion, stability, and sustainable development.

Partnerships:

The fifth “P” is fundamental to achieving the SDGs. Collaboration among governments, business leaders, civil society organizations, academics, and other stakeholders is crucial for mobilizing resources, sharing knowledge, and implementing effective strategies. Each of the SDGs represents a complex challenge that will require global solidarity to overcome.

The significance of partnerships is enshrined in SDG 17. This goal encourages multi-stakeholder partnerships that mobilize and share knowledge, expertise, technology, and financial resources to support the achievement of the SDGs. Partnerships enable collective action, innovation, and the exchange of best practices, facilitating progress towards sustainable development.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals: The 5 P’s of a Sustainable Future

Conclusion

The “5 Ps” of the UN Sustainable Development Goals – People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnerships – represent the foundation of Agenda 2030, an aspirational plan to build a more equal, more just, more sustainable and more prosperous world for future generations.

The “5 P” framework is helpful for understanding how each of the SDGs are intertwined together: meeting each goal will assist in achieving the others. They are a guide to a better world, which we can only manifest only through a comprehensive approach that incorporates each “P” into our collective actions.

Here at Embrace Relief, we strongly support the UN Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2030. As an accredited 501(c)(3) humanitarian relief organization, we have developed eight programs that address humanity’s greatest challenges, with an eye towards being part of the solution for a more sustainable future.

Click here to learn more about each of our eight humanitarian aid programs, or click here to learn about the role Embrace Relief plays in advancing the UN SDGs.

Donate to Embrace Relief

If you would like to support Embrace Relief’s mission of bringing humanitarian relief to the world’s most vulnerable, please consider a donation in the amount of your choosing below: