The New Jersey chapter of the Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC) organized an online fundraiser to support area first responders during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Indian Muslim community members in New Jersey raised funds for the donation of 15,000 pieces of PPE (personal protective equipment) to first responders, according to information provided by the IAMC. As a part of the drive, the funds were collected over a six-hour online fundraiser where IAMC executives made calls to the donors and community members.
The PPE was distributed at St. Michael’s Medical Center in Newark, Hackensack Meridian Health JFK Medical Center in Edison, and many police departments across Central New Jersey.
“This pandemic has brought out the best of humanity, and every life saved is taking us close to saving the mankind” Mudassir Ansari, general secretary of IAMC-NJ, said in the statement. “Safeguarding our first responders is our first and foremost duty.”
IAMC volunteer Iqbal Mohammed said, “We are honored and privileged to be able to recognize the efforts of our towns’ front lines. Our Sayreville frontliners are working selflessly to take care of us. We’re all in this fight together to beat COVID-19 and keep our communities strong. IMAC is happy to play a part in thanking our Sayreville frontlines. Collectively, we are able to make even more of a difference in this place we all call home.”
IAMC has been organizing community events for the Tri-State Indian community for the past several years. IAMC strongly believes in being connected and caring for the local communities and the COVID-19 pandemic situation has further strengthen the resolve of engaging more, according to the statement.
“The immigrant community of Indian Muslims in New Jersey also wants to send a message to the Indian government that is currently victimizing a section of the minority community even during the COVID-19 pandemic situation, that a strong nation is built if strong communities are built across the nation” Niaz Khan, vice president of IAMC-NJ, said in the statement.