'These times have brought us together' say Muslims in Milton Keynes

The move is part of the young people's determination to do good in society - particularly during the coronavirus crisis.

Saeed Nazir, Youth Leader for Milton Keynes, said: “Islam urges every person to partake in charitable giving, and that even an act of kindness towards another is charity.

"Our religion says to do good in society and to help people, no matter what colour or religion. These times have brought us together. As Muslims, love for our nation is a part of our faith and we also believe that being grateful is a duty upon all Muslims.’’

The face masks were sourced by member Rafeeq Vadakkayil, who is an MK businessman.

He said: "We are a family who are working hard to contribute to our community at this time of crises. We want to ensure that our heroes have all they need to protect themselves and show our gratitude for all they do.

"After the donation of facemasks, we will now be sourcing 1,000 visors for key workers."

The young Muslims have also been busy helping hundreds of Milton Keynes families during the lockdown period.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) has at least 30 volunteers currently deployed and working to help vulnerable people in the city with shopping, walking dogs or tidying gardens.

AMYA is also involved in daily donations to food banks and helping the homeless during this pandemic.

The Central and North Western London (CNWL) Community Nursing NHS Milton Keynes has thanked the organisation for donating 400 face masks.

One nurse said: "I just want to say thank you to the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association for donating some face masks to the District Nurses in Milton Keynes. These are going to really help us to carry on doing our work as you all know PPE is in a short supply."