This beautiful baby was born October 11th 2010, just the night before we visited this family. Her cries could be heard by others at night in this tent when she was giving birth. No comforts but a fabric tent made from scraps, a broken 'charpai' (reed bed) and a couple of utensils. No running water, no medicine, not even some 'mithai' (traditional sweets) to give to others in tents around to celebrate the birth of your child. Yet I find this young mother similing at me as I meet her. It makes me wonder with admiration for these amazing souls. Look at what she has and look at the true 'Alhamdulillah' (thanks and praise to Allah) with a genuine smile coming from a content soul.
Why is it that I don't have a smile like hers? Why is it that I don't have the 'Sabr and Shukr' like hers?
I inquired, 'What did you name him?' She said 'Tu hi rakh dai' (you name him) and I could not be more honored and embarassed at the same time. Such humble assistance from our end, and such generosity on her part! So they named him Mohammad Ismail! May Allah protect and guide him, Ameen.
The small ration of food being distributed by Lahaute Foundation was bought with donation given by a beautiful heart in Orange County, California. When she handed me the money she probably thought the amount was small, so she made 'Dua' "May Allah increase it so it benefits many". Food Ration for 6 families was bought for Rs. 9000 (approx $100) and it should last them for 10-14 days, Alhamdulillah.
These are some of the things that I know they will need in the following cold months in winter here in Lahore:
- Blankets (Rs. 1200/each approx $15)
- Warm clothing from second hand local market (Rs. 60/each approx $1) Good woolen sweaters at this price.
- There are no public bathrooms or drinking water. It is already cold here in Lahore, it would be wonderful for them to spend winters by renting small quarters that 2 families share. (Rs 4000/month approx $50). Some families can join together to commit for 6 months of shelter for $300.
- Water, electricity, food expenses are also basic necessities that anyone can make a donation for as little as they can afford.
If you are interested in contributing to helping these families, you can email me
Lubna@LahauteFoundation.org
