As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds around the country, numerous Indian-Americans are mobilizing to help the most vulnerable sections of the population in numerous ways.
Among them is the Islamic Center of Naperville, Illinois (ICN), which launched an “iDriveProgram” that organizes the pickup and delivery of freshly cooked meals from local vendors, during the month of fasting for Ramadan, especially focusing on the elderly and needy, a May 17, 2020, press release from ICN said.
The vendors who provide iftaar meals(evening meal to break the fast) include Haveli (Naperville), Mr. Broast (Aurora), Pita Inn (Naperville), and Porto’s Peri Peri (Aurora).
Every day, ICN provides different menu options to the community members and their families, organizers said.
Meals are provided to the elderly and needy free of charge, and the cost of the meals is covered by donations from the community.
Volunteers from the ICN Youth Program help pick up the meals from vendors, distribute them at the drive-thru, and deliver them to those who are unable to come.
Individuals who register online for the program come to the ICN Ogden Mosque (2844 W Ogden Ave, Naperville) to pick up their meals between 6 and 7 PM.
The volunteers have been practicing proper social distancing guidelines and using appropriate PPE at each step of the program, the organization said.
“The iDrive Program has been a rewarding experience for everyone involved. The most gratifying moment is seeing a smile on someone’s face as they are comforted to know that the ICN Community is here for them!” said the press release.
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