Islamic charity in Peterborough assists over 20,000 people in 2024

The i Care Islamic charity in Peterborough, East England, run by volunteers from Khadija Mosque and the Islamic Centre on Cromwell Road, has seen a significant rise in demand for its services due to the cost-of-living crisis.

Aqil Khalil, the charity’s founder, told the BBC that in 2024 alone, i Care provided food assistance to over 20,000 people, distributing more than 2,800 hot meals and delivering around 1,550 food parcels to low-income families, along with other essential aid.

Khalil noted that demand for the charity’s services increases during winter as people struggle with food and heating costs. Since its launch in 2021, the organization has helped approximately 60,000 people by providing meals, food parcels, clothing, and essential supplies for children.

The charity operates a community kitchen staffed by professional chefs, a food bank, and hosts weekly social events in partnership with Peterborough City Council. Volunteers also deliver aid to individuals facing mobility or transportation challenges, including the elderly and the sick.