A fundraising campaign has amassed over $102,000 for an American inmate named Hamza, who donated his entire savings to help the people of Gaza.
Hamza, who has been in prison for 40 years due to a tragic accident in his teen years, donated $17.74 this week, from 136 hours of work as a janitor in prison, according to the fundraiser campaign on GoFundMe.
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“In the midst of his own 40-year-long struggle, Hamza’s heart reached out from his California prison cell across oceans to the people of Gaza,” the statement of the fundraiser organized by Justin Mashouf said.
“Despite enduring over 40 years of incarceration for a tragic accident at the age of 16, he has donated his entire savings to the people of Gaza.
“Working tirelessly as a janitor within prison walls, earning a mere 13 cents per hour, Hamza selflessly donated every cent—about $17—from 136 hours of labor to support the people of Gaza,” the statement added.
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New Life Ahead
Mashouf added that Hamza will be released next month thanks to a new law in California that grants parole opportunities to minors charged as adults.
“Now, at 56 years old, Hamza’s remarkable story of empathy and kindness towards Gazans has captivated social media. In response to the outpouring of love for Hamza, we’ve launched this GoFundMe campaign at his behest,” the statement said.
“Your contributions will empower him to transition back into society with dignity and security after years of isolation. With your help, Hamza will access essential resources, secure housing and transportation, and navigate the challenges of his new freedom.”
The fundraiser, which is meant to facilitate Hamza’s adaptation to life outside of prison walls, has accumulated more than $102,000 by Thursday.
Hamza’s generosity embodies Islamic principles, demonstrating the exponential growth of kindness when given freely from the heart.
“The example of those who spend their wealth in the cause of Allah is that of a grain that sprouts into seven ears, each bearing one hundred grains. And Allah multiplies ˹the reward even more˺ to whoever He wills. For Allah is All-Bountiful, All-Knowing.” (Quran 2:261)