Community group hosts fundraiser to aid war and disaster victims

Nayi Zindagi, which works with disabled people, is hosting the fundraiser at the Unity Centre in St Ann’s from 5pm to 9pm on Friday, June 23.

Proceeds will go to Islamic Help and the Kind Giving Foundation to support victims of the Turkey-Syria earthquake in February and people in war-torn Yemen.

As well as a raffle, there will be stalls, henna tattoos and children’s activities.

Rziah Asif from the community group said it was important to remember earthquake victims were still suffering from the effects of the disaster, in which more than 50,000 people died.

“I think people have moved on to something else like it’s yesterday’s news,” she said, “but they are still there and they still need our support”.

She added: “I thought it would be a good time to do it as it’s Eid on June 28 and one of the things we are supposed to do around that time is help the community, and think about other people, especially those who might not be able to celebrate Eid.

“We want to open our fundraiser up to the whole community.”

Nayi Zindagi provide support to adults in Rotherham’s BAME communities with learning disabilities and mental health issues, including depression.

They run a community session at Rawmarsh Hub on Barber’s Avenue, Rawmarsh, every Friday from 1pm to 3pm.

The social enterprise offers basic life skills training, sensory activities, day trips, community events and home help, as well as support with making doctor’s appointments and providin

early intervention to reduce health inequalities.

Rziah said: “It is aimed at the BAME community but open to everyone.”

Anyone interesting in joining or referring a loved one should email  [email protected].