As the UK records more coronavirus infections, the lockdown is expected to be extended.
As of Tuesday, there have been 22,141 COVID-19 cases in the United Kingdom. The virus has killed 1,408 so far in the country.
This lockdown is expected to have severe effects on many vulnerable and needy families.
As Islam puts deep emphasis on an individual duty to help neighbors, a Muslim youth group has launched coronavirus relief effort.
The Ahmadiyya AMYA group, which has a membership exceeding 8,000, has introduced new initiatives to support people in need during the pandemic.
“Our key objective is to serve and contribute to society at all levels through active integration and engagement.” Noor Hadi, one of the UK youngest imams, told The Standard.
“Under AMYA’s motto ‘Love for All Hatred for None’, our purpose is to engender the spirit of discipline, love, and service to the wider community irrespective of people’s beliefs, race or gender.
“We also believe a nation cannot be reformed without the reformation of its youth – so we have introduced structured activities for young people to keep them engaged.”
The new campaign would see volunteers aged between 16 and 40 working in 24 regions across the UK to serve local community members in need.
“Some of our more sporty members and Imams have dedicated their time to create daily online content to help people at homestay fit during this period – with six workout sessions a week, and three targeted at those aged under 15,” Hadi added.
“They’re live videos, so people can interact with one another, it’s a pretty fun way to get fit, all in the safety of your home. We also have challenges and kahoot quizes to take part in and leaderboards which you can climb.”
Much-needed Help
The COVID-19 pandemic has infected 788,065 and killed other 37,877, according to the latest estimates by WorldOMeter.
Over the past weeks, elderly people have been struggling with anxiety and isolation forced on them due to the coronavirus.
In Blackburn, the Masjide Noorul Islam has already recruited 250 people to help the elderly and vulnerable in isolation.
In South Yorkshire, a Muslim volunteer is leading an interfaith campaign to help people in Sheffield and Rotherham.
Preston mosques have donated items to help NHS critical care staff through tough times.
A British Muslim businessman also donated £200,000 to NHS, launching an appeal to raise £1 million.
British Muslim boxer Amir Khan also pledged to give his £5m wedding venue in Bolton to the NHS to help coronavirus victims.