This was part of a wider initiative led by Islamic Relief UK involving 26 partners across the country to deliver food packs, Qurbani (1) meat and Eid gifts to coincide with the Islamic festival of Eid al-Adha (2).

The food packs were prepared and distributed by LFC Foundation and the Qurbani meat was distributed by Liverpool Region Mosque Network. This happened after the Islamic festival of Eid al-Adha, so those celebrating can enjoy the festivities without worrying about being able to afford food.

The increasing cost of living is pushing families into poverty and Liverpool has seen a stark rise in families needing financial assistance and help with food. According to Public Health Liverpool, currently 30% of children in the Liverpool area are living in poverty, the fourth highest in England. One in five households also suffer from fuel poverty, exacerbated by rising fuel costs.

Many people in Liverpool have been hit hard including, low-income families, those suffering from domestic abuse, the homeless, asylum seekers and refugees who were already struggling to feed themselves or pay for basic items to enable them to live independent lives.

To help some of the most vulnerable, boxes were packed with essentials by LFC staff at Anfield.

The hampers contained a range of essential food items, necessities and toys for the children.

Tawhid Islam, Liverpool Region Mosque Network (LRMNET) said: “Given the uncertainties with housing for refugees across the city and the continuing impact of the cost-of-living crises, families across the city are feeling even more isolated and vulnerable at this time.

“As part of our collaboration with Islamic Relief UK and LFC Foundation to mark Eid Ul Adha we wanted to bring some respite to all those communities with hampers of essential items and toys for their children to spread some happiness and remind them that they are always in our thoughts. It is so important that the young children in these families get toys, so they feel a connection with the communities they live in. A little goes a long way in these difficult times.

Matt Parish, LFC Foundation Chief Executive, said: “We have worked alongside Islamic Relief UK and Liverpool Region Mosque for four years and during that time we have helped to support thousands of families who are experiencing food poverty in these financially challenging times."

“Together we can make a real difference in our local communities.”

Tufail Hussain, Director of Islamic Relief UK said: “On the blessed days of the Islamic festival of Eid-al-Adha, we are proud to have worked with LFC Foundation and the Liverpool Mosque Network, who distributed food packs and Qurbani meat to families struggling to feed themselves.

“The cost-of-living crisis in the UK is continuing to wreak havoc on families as many go hungry and are unable to pay their bills. This should simply not be the case in the UK.”