A READING charity is drawing up plans to hold an annual art exhibition after the success of its first event.
More than a hundred people packed into the Fairview Community Centre to enjoy a host of work on the theme of Celebrating Community and Creativity organised by the Sadaka charity.
Afterwards, the need for the charity’s work was laid bare when a similar number of people arrived to collect food Sadaka provides.
Shazia Fazal, Trustee for Sadaka said: “We were thrilled to host this art exhibition as a way of celebrating the incredible spirit of our community. There is so much talent and creativity flourishing within our service users. We hope it will be an annual event.
“After the exhibition, a record number of people arrived to collect food that we distribute. We used to feed just 50 people then it rose to 80 and now it is over 100 and that figure is likely to increase.
“The cost of living crisis has worsened in recent months. We actually ran out of food and had to buy sandwiches from nearby shops or we would have turned people away hungry.”
The exhibition was held in partnership with The Museum of English Rural Life, Reading Museum and Reading High Street Heritage Action Zone.
Sadaka, an Arabic word which translates as “to give for the sake of humanity” is known for its commitment to providing free, nutritious, and warm meals, as well as essential support to those facing financial hardships.
Shazia added: “The art exhibition follows the remarkable success of Sadaka’s StepUp with Sadaka Project, an initiative aimed at upskilling individuals and helping them find employment opportunities.
“In 2021, we expanded our services to include Sadaka Wellbeing, a safe haven where everyone is welcome to relax, engage in various activities such as painting, jewellery making, mindful colouring, networking, and more. This initiative has provided a space for service users to momentarily escape their complex and challenging lives.
“We appeal to anyone for donations, whether money or food. We see the need increasing month after month.”
To learn more about Sadaka and how you can support their mission, go to: www.sadakagives.org.uk
