Fun-draising to help those in need
Halifax residents concerned about the mounting crisis in Gaza enjoyed an afternoon at a charity gala to raise money for the Palestinian people. Halifax High School was a hive of activity as it hosted the Halifax Charity Gala for Palestine.
The event was held to raise money for Interpal, a non-political charity which helps Palestinians in need.
From traditional Asian cuisine and delicious sweet treats, to Mehndi, Islamic calligraphy and music as well as a bouncy castle, gladiator joust and a football tournament, there was something for all the family to enjoy.
Camran Tufail, one of the organisers of the event said: “It’s been a really good day, with some great volunteers.
“We’ve had a mixture of people and we’ve had a lot of help and support from the local community.
“Today is about raising awareness and it is really important that we do raise awareness about what is going on.”
Zaeem Iqbal, a volunteer with Interpal, said that the event was organised to be inclusive and welcome everyone in the community.
The gala was a chance for many to reflect on the situation in Gaza, including eightyear-old Ehsan Ahmed who made loom band bracelets to sell at the event.
Ehsan’s mum, Tehseem, said: “He wanted to use his own initiative by buying some loom bands and making some bracelets to sell and all the funds will be donated to Palestine.
“He wanted to raise awareness, but also be proactive as well and do something himself.
“That’s why I think today is a really important day, for all of us as a family to be active, to donate something and raise awareness about what is going on in Palestine.”
Nabeela Mushtaq had travelled from Moseley, Birmingham, for the event.
“It’s really good to get people talking about why we are here,” she said.
“It’s also a good, fun day out for the kids and we’ve really enjoyed it so far.”
Natalie Silvester, who went along to the gala with her children, said: “I feel that it’s something important and awareness is raised about what is going on.
“Its nice just to try to help people who need it the most.”
Many stalls paid a dona- tion fee for the event. The final total is to be totted up, but organisers said that response from the public was fantastic, with around £14,500 being raised to help those in need.