In March and April 2024, the Apportion Relief Foundation (ARF) continued its noble tradition by organizing its second annual Ramadan Sehr and Iftar initiative. This year, the initiative was even more impactful, reaching more than 500 individuals daily. The ongoing economic instability and worsening inflation made ARF’s efforts even more crucial, as low-income workers and laborers struggled to meet their daily food needs. The initiative, held near the Quaid-e-Azam Industrial Area, Township, Lahore, provided a lifeline to underprivileged families, helping them save on food expenses and making a tangible difference in their daily lives.

Overview of the Activity

Throughout Ramadan, ARF served freshly prepared, nutritious meals to over 500 people daily, both at Sehr (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (meal to break the fast). Beneficiaries included laborers, low-income families, and factory workers, all of whom faced heightened financial pressures due to worsening economic conditions in Pakistan. For many, this initiative provided much-needed relief during a time of spiritual significance, ensuring they could observe their fasts with dignity and without the burden of worrying about their next meal.

Nutritional and Hygienic Meal Preparation

As in 2023, ARF placed strong emphasis on the quality, hygiene, and nutrition of the meals provided. Using FDA-approved ingredients, every meal was prepared fresh daily, maintaining a balance between taste and nutritional value while respecting traditional Ramadan foods.

Sehri Menu:

• Parathas and rotis (flatbread)
• Accompaniments such as yogurt and lassi (both sweet and salty varieties)
• Rotating curries including:
• Chicken Qorma
• Chana (chickpea curry)
• Anda Kofta (egg and meatball curry)
• Haleem
• Fresh water to ensure hydration

Iftar Menu:

• Traditional fast-breaking items like dates and sharbat or lemon sharbat
• Snacks such as:
• Samosas
• Rolls
• Dahi Bara / Fruit Chaat
• Chana Chaat
• Main courses rotating between rice and curries such as:
• Haleem
• Chana
• Chicken Qorma
• Kofta

These carefully planned meals ensured that individuals were well-nourished and could sustain their fasts during Ramadan. Many beneficiaries expressed gratitude, noting that the initiative significantly lightened their financial burden, allowing them to save on food expenses during a difficult economic period.

Volunteer and Community Engagement

ARF’s dedicated team of volunteers once again played a pivotal role in the success of the initiative. They worked tirelessly, ensuring the meals were prepared and served in a timely and organized manner. Even during difficult weather conditions, the Dastarkhwan (dining area) was moved to a covered space, ensuring the continuity of service. The community's involvement, alongside ARF’s volunteers, further strengthened the sense of solidarity and shared purpose during Ramadan.

Media Coverage and Public Engagement

This year, ARF’s initiative garnered increased media attention. City 42 and other local media outlets highlighted the event, emphasizing the critical role ARF was playing in alleviating hunger during a time of great need. The foundation’s social media team provided real-time updates, keeping donors informed and fostering greater awareness of ARF’s ongoing efforts. This transparency continued to build trust and encouraged more individuals to contribute to the cause.

Spiritual Uplift and Community Bonding

Each Iftar gathering was not only about providing meals but also fostering a deep sense of spiritual connection. After the meal, attendees participated in Mehfil-e-Naat  and dua . This helped reinforce the spiritual and communal aspect of Ramadan, providing a sense of unity and gratitude. Children and families particularly enjoyed the inclusive, welcoming environment, making the experience joyful and uplifting.

Donor and Stakeholder Engagement

ARF’s success in 2024 was also due to the generous support of donors, many of whom appreciated the transparent reporting provided by the foundation. The daily updates reassured donors about how their contributions were being utilized, encouraging more people and organizations to contribute to this noble cause. The ongoing partnership with corporate sponsors, including the Value Group, further demonstrated the importance of community collaboration in addressing social issues.

Conclusion

In 2024, ARF’s Ramadan Sehr and Iftar initiative reached new heights, serving more than 500 individuals daily amidst worsening economic conditions in Pakistan. This initiative not only alleviated hunger but also provided much-needed financial relief to laborers and low-income families, many of whom were struggling to cope with rising costs. By maintaining high standards for nutrition and hygiene, and fostering a strong sense of community and spiritual connection, ARF has once again demonstrated its capacity to bring about meaningful change in the lives of the underprivileged.

As ARF continues to expand its reach, this year’s successful Ramadan initiative highlights the foundation’s growing ability to combat hunger, reduce dependency, and uplift society as a whole. Through the tireless efforts of volunteers, generous donations, and effective community partnerships, ARF has set a new benchmark for humanitarian work, laying the groundwork for future projects aimed at empowering Pakistan’s most vulnerable communities.