Losing a loved one leaves a void that can’t be filled. The unparalleled grief and challenges that follow are difficult enough for adults to bear, but for children, they are often even more overwhelming and life-changing. With each passing year, the number of children orphaned by world events, natural disasters, and other tragedies continues to rise across the globe. The Islamic World is no exception. 

The recent floods in Pakistan and the earthquakes in Turkiye and Syria have only added to the alarming increase in young children left with no home, family, or support system. As Muslims, what is our role and responsibility in helping them grow up to be emotionally and physically healthy and productive members of society?  

Abu Huraira (ra) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (swt) (p.b.u.h.) said: “I and someone who cares for an orphan, regardless of whether they are related to them or a stranger, become like this (index finger and middle finger intertwined) in paradise.” (Muslim) 

Orphan’s Day in the Islamic World is an initiative developed by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to raise awareness about the challenges and hardships orphans face. Each year, on the 15th of Ramadan, Muslims around the world are reminded of their responsibility towards orphans and called to take action to ease their burdens—not just on this day but throughout the year. 

Palestine, Syria, Jordan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Kashmir, Indonesia, Kenya, Haiti, and Sri Lanka are some of the countries HHRD’s Orphan Support Program has been working tirelessly to care for the many children waiting for our help.  By sponsoring an orphan for $1/day, we can ensure they receive the care they need through food, clothing, shelter, healthcare, education, and financial support.  

The need is great. The opportunity is there—we must do our part. Sponsor an orphan, change a life. www.hhrd.org/OrphanSupport. 

By Nausheen Ahmed. Sr. Nausheen is a senior content writer at HHRD.