[HIC] Weekday Iftars at HIC

Assalamualaikum Dear Community Members,

We've receivedquite a few queries regarding the weekday iftars and thought it'd be best to send out a clarification email. Please read through the FAQs below; if you stillhave questions, feel free to get in touch - you can email us at [email protected] or text/call Sr. Hibah@ 256 652 7615

• Who is the weekday iftar for and how many people are usually expected?
  Weekday iftars are typically for students,singles,travelers, and new Muslims. Based on previous years, we usually have around 45 people or so come break theirfast at the masjid.

• This year the masjid is doingboxed iftars - are people expected to pick food and go home or eat in the car?
  NO - the masjid will be open, and there will be chairs and tables set up for those wishing to stay at themasjid. However, keep in mind that theHIC does not encourage personal iftar gatherings as has been the practice in the past.

• The signup link is no longer working. How do I sign up to host a weekday iftar?
  The signup link is now defunct. You can sign up to host an iftar using the calendar that has been placed in the masjid; alternatively, you can reach out to Sr. Hibah to book a date. If you already booked a date via the old signup link, your spot is still valid and you do not need to sign up again.

• I plan to make 50 boxes and deliver them to the masjid - what is the process?
  Please plan to drop off the boxes about an hour before maghrebusing theback entrance (gym). Helpers will be present to assist you in unloading the boxes and will also take care of the distribution. You are welcome to stay if you'd like but are not required to do so.

• I can preparethe food but cannot make 50 boxes. What should I do?
  Again, please drop off your disposable trays of food about an hour before maghrebusing the back entrance (gym). Helpers will assist you in unloading the trays and will prepare and distribute the boxes for you. You are welcome to stay if you'd like but are not required to do so.

• Do I need to bring dates and water also?
  You are welcome to bring small bottles of water and/or dates; however, you do not need to as the masjid will have these items available inshaAllah!

• I cannot make the food but am willing to buy food or contribute money. How do I go about doing this?
  Attached to this email are some options for ordering food; you can do this yourself or you can contact Sr. Hibah if you'd prefer to just donate money.

• **I want to sponsor a partial iftar. Is there any way to do this?
  **Yes - team sponsor options are available; you will need to make a minimum contribution of $100. Please contact Sr. Hibah for additional details.

• Finally, this is all well and good, BUT why is HIC changing the iftar system this year?
  We believe that doing boxed iftars will reduce food wastage, cut down cleaning and other costs, and also reduce the burden on our volunteer staff. Again, we cannot promise you that there won't be hiccups along the way - but please be patient as we try this out!

May Allah make this Ramadan better than previous years, may He accept all our worship, and allow this blessed month to be a means to get closer to Him! Aameen.

Sincerely,

HIC Board 2024