For the tenth consecutive year, a Muslim community group in the United Kingdom has taken to the streets on Christmas Day to share hot meals, conversation, and companionship with people experiencing homelessness.
Muslims4Bristol, a grassroots social action group based in Bristol—a city in southwest England—held its annual Christmas “share and care” day, bringing Muslim families and volunteers together to support people who would otherwise spend the day alone, itv.com reported.
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“This is an annual tradition where Muslims, for the past ten years, go out on Christmas Day to share this special day with our Bristol brothers and sisters who spend the day alone—we will be their families on such a day,” said Mohammed Elsharif, who has been organising the initiative since 2015.
“This action of kindness and togetherness amongst our diverse communities is much more needed than before.”
Decade-long Tradition
The initiative began as a small act of outreach and has since become a decade-long tradition rooted in Islamic values of compassion, generosity, and social responsibility.
Each year, Muslim families prepare food at home before volunteers distribute meals and hot drinks to homeless and isolated individuals across the city.
This year’s effort saw three families cook and package around 150 hot meals, with 12 volunteers turning out on Christmas Day to help distribute them.
Long-time volunteer Negat Hussien described the experience as deeply meaningful. “Giving back to those who need it most during Christmas, spreading festive joy, and making a real difference in someone’s day is truly rewarding,” she said.
“It’s a wonderful way to gain perspective and feel grateful for what you have.”
Another volunteer, Muna Talha, highlighted the human connection at the heart of the initiative.
“As Muslims, we think Christmas is a beautiful, special event, and we want to celebrate it with those who have been forgotten,” she said. “We go out, spend time, talk, and start conversations.”
She added, “It’s not just about giving food—it’s about showing care, conversation, and love.”
Organisers say the event reflects a broader commitment by Muslim communities in Britain to serve society beyond religious or cultural boundaries.
While Christmas is not a Muslim religious holiday, volunteers see it as an opportunity to stand in solidarity with vulnerable members of society during a time when loneliness can be especially acute.
As Muslims4Bristol completes a decade of Christmas outreach, organisers say the message remains simple: compassion should not be seasonal, and no one should feel forgotten.