Meet Our New Neighbors - Part III

As many of you may know, Muslims observe Ramadan, a full month of daytime fasting from sunrise to sunset.  Our new Afghan neighbors followed this observance through the month of May and recently the three families celebrated the end of Ramadan, which was May 2.   Traditionally, the families would celebrate for 3-7 days after the end of their fasting period, meeting friends and other families at restaurants or their homes.  This Ramadan end was a bit different for them since they were not able to go out to restaurants or visit families who live far from Chicago.  It was both a joyful and a difficult time.  

Yet during this time, QAS provided many generous gifts to the families, for which they are extremely thankful.  The QAS Men’s Club sent a member to fix many of the problem areas at their home, including broken locks and clogged pipes.  Another Men’s club member donated a bicycle to Basharmal so he now can bike to Northeastern and not rely on the CTA for on time service.  Others donated a lock and a helmet and strongly urged him to always lock his bike!  Basharmal takes his ESL test this week so we are sending good wishes to him.  He will then begin accounting classes to obtain his masters in accounting.   

Other parishioners donated Easter treats that were shared with the children at an Iftar (a meal breaking the daily fast after sundown).  One QAS family has generously pledged monthly contributions to assist the family with household expenses for a year.  Another QAS family donated additional household items and offered furniture.  A former QAS parishioner donated a beautiful rug which was perfect for the end of Ramadan, which is also a time to make the home as lovely as possible and for family members to wear new clothes to celebrate a new start.  Our team brought the women to Vogue Fabrics to purchase fabric to make new dresses.  Vogue Fabrics in Evanston generously gave them a discounted price on the material.  And finally, QAS St. Vincent de Paul Society will be donating Target gift cards to provide much needed every day necessities. 

Thank you again to all who have made donations or offered to help. You have made a big difference in their lives.  QAS parishioners who are interested in helping to mentor or sponsor these families may reach out to moira@buildingpeacefulbridges.org.