Funds raised by a charity run by South Asian Americans is helping children in war-ravaged Gaza with soup kitchens, distributing food, and organizing programs to help cope with the pain, loss, and tragedy of war.
Bloom Charity dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable children worldwide, raised over $158,000 at a gala in November and plans to raise $500,000 to $1 million to meet the growing needs once the war ends.
Leading the organization are co-founders Amina Shams and Uzma Ahmad, two sisters who have dedicated over four decades to serving their faith community, the broader Montgomery County, and the state of Maryland, where they were raised and continue to make a meaningful impact.
Bloom’s future plans are increasingly focused on supporting the children of Gaza with initiatives aimed at strengthening their mental health and resilience during these challenging times, they say.
READ: Bloom Charity: Raising happy, healthy kids in orphanages (July 26, 2023)
“I believe our desire to support vulnerable children far outweighs any pursuit of personal success or well-being,” says Shams. “The generosity displayed by the participants at the gala is a testament to our collective ability to rise above and go beyond in making a difference.”
“The overwhelming support from those who believe in our cause has left me deeply humbled and inspired,” says Ahmad. “It’s a powerful reminder that when people come together with compassion and commitment, we can achieve extraordinary things for the most vulnerable among us.”
Powered by a team of nine key individuals, eight of whom are women, Bloom Charity focuses on mental health, early childhood development, food security, and education.
The organization operates globally, supporting orphaned and at-risk children through programs such as PlayGardens for safe recreational spaces, enrichment activities, and crisis response initiatives. Bloom Charity emphasizes community-driven solutions, employing local talent to implement projects.
In its six years of operation, Bloom Charity has established 10 PlayGardens in orphanages across Morocco, providing safe spaces for recreation and development to over 3,000 children. These projects have collectively generated over $1million in impact value, significantly enhancing the lives of vulnerable children.
Bloom underwent an organizational transition and paused physical events during the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, it successfully hosted two reunions for parents who adopted children from Moroccan orphanages, fostering connection and support among adoptive families.
Bloom Charity’s first gala since 2020 in November brought together 340 supporters, 90% of whom were women. With inspiring speakers, cultural performances, and an art auction, the event highlighted the transformative power of collective effort.
“The energy in the room was palpable, and the generosity on display was deeply inspiring,” recalls Shukoor Ahmed, an angel investor. “The program itself was as moving as it was empowering.”
Lena Derhally, the evening’s emcee, set the tone beautifully. As the granddaughter of Bethlehem’s mayor and married to a descendant of the Naqba, Derhally brought a deeply personal perspective to the evening.
An author, therapist, and Bloom board member, she has been instrumental in developing a program that connects trauma patients from Gaza with culturally competent therapists in the US.
Powerful stories resonated throughout the night. Dr Irfan Galaria offered a poignant glimpse into his time in Gaza, sharing firsthand accounts of patients who lacked family support—many of their loved ones either injured or lost to the violence. His experiences served as a sobering reminder of the human toll of conflict.
Jihan Al Husseini, CEO of Hayat Washington and Bloom’s on-the-ground partner in Palestine, delivered an impassioned address about the challenges and resilience of those in Gaza.
The night’s excitement was amplified by the presence of two noted Palestinian activists, Isra Chaker and Knafeh Queen, whose advocacy lit up the room. Their auctioning of Knafeh pies and chocolates not only delighted attendees but also raised additional funds for the cause.
The evening wasn’t just about fundraising—it was a celebration of Palestinian culture. The all-female Dabke group, Malikat (Queens) Al Dabke, captivated the audience with their vibrant performance, energizing the crowd with their passion and artistry.
Guests also enjoyed an art auction, a stunning fashion show, and vendors offering unique clothing and jewelry—many of whom generously donated a portion of their sales to Bloom Charity.
“This event wasn’t just a gala—it was a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with purpose and compassion,” said Ahmed. “The funds raised, awareness generated, and connections forged will undoubtedly create a lasting impact.”