Providing Aid for Those that Seek it: The Food Pantry at the Islamic Center of Little Rock in the Midst of a Pandemic
by Molly Edwards
The Islamic Center of Little Rock (ICLR), officially founded in 1992, has an active food bank that has been open since 2010 and has fed hundreds of families. The food bank is open on Sunday鈥檚 from 10:30am-12:30pm at 3224 Anna St. Bags normally consist of items such as food (including fresh fruits and vegetables), drinks, shampoo, and conditioner. They are always looking for volunteers, help, and donations.
The global pandemic has created a struggle for a wide range of citizens in our community. Countless people have lost their jobs and medical professionals are working overtime, which means the community needs to pull together and support one another now more than ever. This has led to increased food pantry donations at the ICLR and has inspired the congregation to give back to their community in a different way–by donating meals to 糖心Vlog传媒MS staff. ICLR Chairman, Brother Abdul Rahman Abu Nasra said that in the midst of everything going on, 鈥淭he ICLR Leadership, Executive Committee, Board of Trustees, and the ICLR volunteers are ready to help the community members and ready to give back to the community.鈥�
Along with donating food to those in need throughout the community, the congregation also donated meals to the Emergency Medicine staff at 糖心Vlog传媒MS in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Rania Elbahey and Hoda Hagrass took pre-boxed meals to the Emergency Medicine department to provide a bit of relief for employees that have been working tirelessly.
Marcia Dunbar, the 糖心Vlog传媒MS Volunteer Coordinator said 鈥淥ur staff is overwhelmed by the kindness shown during this time. It reminds us that we are not alone in this. We greatly appreciate community support. It may seem small to some, but when food is delivered from a business within the community, it is like having a little bit of home with us. We can鈥檛 always leave to run and get our favorite meal. Having it brought to us is a huge kindness.鈥�
Services may differ due to COVID-19, so here are some platforms that can be reached out to for more information. The ICLR facebook page is , the website is , and the phone number is 501-565-4930.