Muslims show respect through gifts to elderly in Dagenham

Ahmadiyya Muslims from Barking brought gifts to the elderly in a bid to spread their message of “love for all, hatred for none”.

Bringing hampers of fruit, bunches of flowers and tins of biscuits, the Barking branch of the minority Muslim organisation hoped to honour what it believes to be a central principle of Islam – charity.

Saimah Ahmed, 37, said looking out for the elderly is a key part of her faith after she and four other women dropped off their donations at Chestnut Care Home in Frizlands Lane, Dagenham.

“The elderly in Islam are given a lot of respect because of their age and experience,” she said. “The residents were really happy with our donations and we enjoyed the visit.

Saimah said the donations on Tuesday last week were given as part of Islamic Awareness Week, which she believes gives Muslims everywhere an opportunity to showcase the finest parts of their faith.

“Islamic awareness week is a good time to raise awareness about real Islamic teachings,” she said. “The key thing is about peace and caring for people in the community – this is what Islam is about.”

Saimah said the ladies’ group that visited the home will continue to support the elderly in Barking and Dagenham and hopes to donate to the home again soon.
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