Dear brothers and sisters in Islam, and esteemed members of our global community, As we approach the blessed month of Ramadan and the joyous celebration of Eid ul-Fitr, we are presented with a unique opportunity to embody the true spirit of our faith and humanity. Today, we reach out to you with hearts full of hope and a mission of immense compassion – the Eid Basket initiative for our Afghan refugee brothers and sisters.

Allah سبحانه وتعالى reminds us in the Holy Quran:
"And they give [them] preference over themselves, even though they are in privation. And whoever is protected from the stinginess of his soul - it is those who will be the successful." (Quran 59:9)

Imagine, if you will, the plight of these 83 Afghan families who have found refuge in Harrisonburg and Staunton. They have left behind their homes, their possessions, and in many cases, their loved ones. They have traversed oceans and continents, carrying with them only memories and hope for a better future. Now, as Eid approaches – a time of joy, celebration, and new beginnings – we have the power to light up their lives with the warmth of our community's embrace.

Our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: "The believer's shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity." (Tirmidhi) Today, we invite you to cast a shade of mercy not just for the hereafter, but for the here and now. Your contribution to the Eid Basket initiative is more than a donation; it is a lifeline of hope, a gesture of love, and a testament to the unbreakable bonds of our Ummah. Reflect for a moment on the hadith of our Prophet ﷺ: "None of you [truly] believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself." (Bukhari and Muslim) What do we love for ourselves and our families on Eid? New clothes that make our children's eyes sparkle with joy, decorations that transform our homes into beacons of celebration, gifts that make our loved ones feel cherished. These simple pleasures, which we might take for granted, can mean the world to a family that has lost everything.

Your contribution, no matter how small, can help fill these Eid baskets with:
- Islamic books to nourish the soul
- Jewelry to adorn and bring smiles
- Decorations to brighten their new homes
- Clothes to honor the Sunnah of wearing our best on Eid
- Personal care products to restore dignity
- Prayer beads to strengthen their connection with Allah

Remember the words of our Prophet ﷺ: "The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people." (Tabarani) By supporting this initiative, you are not just giving material goods; you are giving hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging. You are saying to these families, "You are not alone. You are loved. You are part of us." To our local community members, we call upon you to be the Ansar of our time. Just as the people of Medina opened their hearts and homes to the Muhajireen, let us embrace our new neighbors with open arms and generous spirits. To our global Muslim community and all people of conscience around the world, we invite you to be part of this beautiful act of solidarity. In a world often divided by borders and differences, let us unite in this mission of mercy. Allah سبحانه وتعالى promises us: "Is there any reward for good other than good?" (Quran 55:60) Your reward for this act of kindness is immeasurable. It is the dua of a child who receives a new Eid outfit, the tears of joy from a mother who can finally give her children a celebration, the renewed faith of a father who sees that he and his family have not been forgotten. We humbly ask you to open your hearts and contribute generously before April 19th, allowing us time to prepare and distribute these gifts of love before Eid ul-Fitr. Remember, 100% of your donation goes directly to purchasing items for the Eid baskets. In these blessed days of Ramadan, as we fast and pray, let us also reach out our hands in solidarity and compassion. Let us be the answer to the silent prayers of those in need. Let us create an Eid filled with joy, not just for ourselves, but for our Afghan brothers and sisters. May Allah سبحانه وتعالى accept our efforts, multiply our rewards, and unite our hearts in this beautiful act of giving. May He ease the hardships of all those suffering around the world and make us among those who bring light to the lives of others. "And whoever relieves a believer of a distress from the distressful aspects of this world, Allah will rescue him from a difficulty of the difficulties of the Hereafter." (Sahih Muslim) With hope in our hearts and dua on our lips, we thank you for your generosity and compassion. Jazakum Allahu Khayran, and may Allah's peace, mercy, and blessings be upon you all.