FAITH leaders in Bradford are encouraging the district’s Muslim community to do all they can to support the most vulnerable this Christmas.

Imams in the city are calling on people to be particularly generous amid the festive season, with the cost of living crisis continuing to affect families.

The Bradford-based Volunteering Interfaith Partnership (VIP) is also making a pledge for people to donate to those in need.

“Every one of us, of all faiths and none, will experience some type of hardship at some point in our lives,” said Hafiz Imtiaz Mussa, of Masjid-ur-Raashideen in Heaton.

“It is very important to help those who are suffering and carry out good deeds.

“This Christmas, we need to support struggling families and present the real Islam, which is all about being peaceful and kind.

“According to the teachings of the Prophet, the most rewarding actions in Islam are aiding those in need, feeding the hungry and helping the afflicted.”

Dr Javed Bashir, founder of the VIP, added that more must be done to ensure that financial worries do not ruin Christmas for families in Bradford.

“The festive season can be an expensive time of year,” he said.

“The cost of living crisis is having a huge impact on people. Families are relying on food banks and are struggling to heat their homes.

“Research shows that six in 10 Brits are feeling anxious about Christmas this year, so the VIP is making a fresh commitment to ensure that the faith communities are always on the side of those in need.”

Dr Bashir encouraged mosques to open their doors on December 25 to offer food and a warm space for people who are bearing the brunt of the crisis.

“On Christmas Day and Boxing Day faith institutions should offer a delicious curry for people who are unable to eat at home,” he said.

“Putting a smile on people’s faces during Christmas is a mission of Muhammad Habib, a 15-year-old volunteer who will be keeping himself busy helping people.”

Habib will be handing out food and gifts this year, continuing his track record of supporting the vulnerable.

“As a Muslim, I don’t celebrate Christmas, but I still enjoy the smile it brings and helping other people,” he said. 

“I’ve been volunteering with the VIP since I was 12. It gives me great satisfaction.”

“As I’ve got older, I’ve broadened my perspective of different communities.  I think it’s in my nature now to help needy people.”

For more information, contact javed@sfitogether.org.