Some journeys leave a mark on our hearts. And even a year later, this one still does.
Last Ramadan, Kamal Ali, our founder, drove from Newport to Bradford. Six long hours on the road, stretched further by traffic. But every minute felt worth it, because he was on his way to meet someone incredible.
Eisa.
A son with Down syndrome.
Alongside his extraordinary mother, Shabs, he was part of something that felt bigger than any one person or project. They were not simply “helping” children. They were opening doors to Salah for children who are too often overlooked.
That visit stayed with Kamal long after the drive home.
Because during that conversation, Shabs said something that has never left him.
She spoke about how society often sidelines children with additional needs. How some people quietly assume, “They’re not obligated to pray, so they don’t need to learn.” But Shabs sees what many people miss.
She sees children who want to pray, hear the words of Allah, and place their heads on the ground in sujood. They want to feel included. And they deserve that opportunity.
From One Visit to Hundreds of Homes
Fast forward to today, and the scale of what has grown since that first meeting is genuinely humbling.
Since that visit, Shabs and Eisa have donated over 500 Interactive Prayer Mats and Quran Pads to children with Down syndrome and additional needs.
Over 500!
This was not a small gesture. It was not a one-off Ramadan project or a momentary campaign. It became a growing sadaqah journey, reaching hundreds of homes, daily routines, and hearts.
What makes this even more powerful is the spirit behind it. This was never done for attention or applause. It was done quietly, sincerely, for Allah.
A mother and her son turning love into action; care into consistency; and belief into something that continues long after Ramadan ends.
Why This Matters Beyond the Product
When a child with additional needs is given the tools to engage with Salah, something shifts.
It is not just about learning movements or words, but it changes how the child feels as well as the atmosphere in the home. It changes how parents feel supported, understood, and seen by the wider ummah.
It sends a message that inclusion is not optional. It is part of who we are meant to be.
For our founder, this initiative has always been about dignity. About creating access, not lowering expectations. About recognising that every child deserves the chance to connect with Allah in a way that works for them.
As Ramadan Returns
With Ramadan approaching again, one simple question keeps coming up:
What are we doing that will still count when the month ends?
One way to do that is by supporting this initiative.
Because the impact does not stop when the fasts end or the decorations come down. It continues in daily prayers, in quiet moments of learning, and in the confidence of children who feel included rather than overlooked.
Taking It Further This Year
This year, the intention is clear.
To reach more children.
To support more families.
To encourage more mosques and communities to open their doors wider.
Not with pity, but with purpose.
If someone has ever wanted to make a Ramadan donation that creates ongoing impact, this is it. Sponsoring even one Interactive Prayer Mat or Quran Pad can make a real difference. This journey has already shown what happens when one turns into hundreds.
Last year was the beginning.
This year, insha’Allah, it goes further.
With sincere thanks to everyone who has supported this initiative from the very start, and especially to Shabs and Eisa for reminding us what sincerity truly looks like.
FAQs
Why is this initiative focused on children with additional needs?
Because inclusion in worship matters, and every child deserves access to Salah in a way that works for them.
How can someone support this project?
By sponsoring a prayer mat or Quran Pad for a child with Down syndrome or additional needs, even one unit makes a difference.
Why does this matter beyond Ramadan?
Because the impact continues daily, long after the month ends, through prayer, routine, and connection with Allah.
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