Oldham Leads Four Councils In Helping Those Less Fortunate

A local cause has won praise from four mayors, a deputy lord lieutenant, and the Assistant High Commissioner for Bangladesh, for raising funds for the borough.

The Local Ramadan Project, which includes a runner who completed 95km in a day, was honoured at a gathering of first citizens at Oldham Council’s Chamber.

Raising £2000 for mayoral charities in Oldham, Tameside, Warrington and Chester, their campaign which included running 100 miles while fasting during the month of Ramadan, was described by Mohammad Jobayed Hosen (Bangladesh’s Assistant Chief Commissioner to the UK) as, “a beautiful idea.”

The idea of raising funds for four Mayoral charities was the brainchild of Oldham campaigner, Amin Babor Chowdhury. 

“In previous years we have been able to support those in need in our borough but the growing interest in what we are doing, has enabled us now to spread the kindness far and wide.” Chowdhury said, “It is not just about money, awareness is just as important. By supporting the Mayor of Oldham’s charities, we have highlighted the plight of young people struggling with issues such as homelessness.”

Joining Oldham Mayor Eddie Moores at the event were the Mayor of Tameside Cllr Shibley Alam, Cllr Mo Hussain who is the Mayor of Warrington, and the Lord Mayor of Chester Cllr Sherin Akhtar. 

Akhtar is the first Muslim female to wear the chain in Chester. She reminded guests that she was born in Oldham and added, “It is a privilege to be here – especially when I can recognise friends from the primary school I went to. This is the first time another local authority has helped councils in this way, and I thank everyone for their contribution.”

Each and every participant and contributor was saluted at the event, including restaurant owners, food, and retail outlets, and those who contribute to everything from caring for the local environment to helping people from Bangladeshi communities to settle in Britain. 

Oldham based Personal Home Care Services Ltd were just one of the businesses commended for helping to raise funds for women’s refuges, hospices, and projects to offer young people positive activities.

Chowdhury added: “During Ramadan, Muslims believe that Zakat and Sadaqah, which are forms of charity, are our sacred duties and that we must contribute to those in need.

“This has been a perfect example of that. It is my hope that more and more communities come together to do their bit in what are difficult times for many people across the world.”