The UN shares Iftar with Children in Dhaka

Traditionally, those observing Ramadan break their fast by eating three dates, to emulate the way the Prophet Mohammed(SWT) broke his fast. Then, Iftar begins — a celebration with plenty of food, family, and friends. In Bangladesh, the sweet drink of shorbot is common at the Iftar table, typically made from fruits and flower petals.

For Abdullah, Samia , Ayesha and many other children living in the Korail slum, Ramadan means a month of prayer, fasting, and traditional ‘Iftari’ like , ‘Peyaju, ‘Chola’, ‘Jilapi’ etc. But sadly, these foods are not easily available on their tables every day.

On 19th April, the UN Bangladesh team headed out to spend an evening with children and honour the Holy month and the importance of the acts of charity and kindness.  The team went to four different locations in Dhaka city; Korail Orphanage, Gabtoli, Kamalapur, and Sadarghat to distribute 500 Iftar food and gift boxes to children.

“Spending time with children and their caregivers during Iftar reminds us that children need our empathy and support”, said the UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, Gwyn Lewis. “I would like to thank all of the UN agencies and the UN Staff Association for making this evening’s Iftar a very special one.”