Assemblyman Mike Miller
Assemblyman Mike Miller and the Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association are sponsoring a toy drive to help children from families in need celebrate Eid al-Fitr.
Eid al-Fitr, which translates to the festival of breaking the fast, is a holiday celebrated by Muslims that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Observing Ramadan – which marks the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar – is one of the five pillars of Islam, and observers fast from dawn until sunset. The time spent fasting is meant to inspire self-reflection.
This year, Ramadan began July 8 and ends on the evening of Aug. 7.
Children will often receive presents as part of the Ramadan celebration, but many Queens families are struggling financially – which is why Miller and the WRBA said they are working to ensure the youngsters and their families are able to mark the important holiday.
Assemblyman Mike Miller and the Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association, including the pictured WRBA President Ed Wendell, are holding a toy drive for children celebrating Eid al-Fitr.
Suggested toys include toy trucks, cars and legos for boys and girls ages 5 and up.
Individuals may bring an unwrapped gift to the WRBA’s next meeting on July 20 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at St. Luke’s, located at 87-34 85th St. in Woodhaven. Those interested in helping may also drop gifts off at Miller’s office 83-91 Woodhaven Blvd. in Woodhaven.
The deadline to donate a new toy is Aug. 1.
For more information, call Miller’s office at (718) 805-0950.
The WRBA also announced this week that the Queens Tabernacle is sponsoring two free upcoming events.
A free basketball camp will be held in Forest Park on July 22 through July 26. The camp will run from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day and will include experienced instructors who will help children with shooting, defense, and rebounding, among other skills. There will be competitions and daily free giveaways. For more information, call (718) 846-7575.
Additionally, the Queens Tabernacle will sponsor a children’s street fair that will feature food, games, gifts-face-painting, and more. It will be held July 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on 96th Street near 86th Avenue.
By Anna Gustafson
