Zakat Foundation of America in the
Philippines
Response to Humanitarian Crisis
The Philippines is one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries, facing recurring humanitarian needs driven by climate change, typhoons, floods, and earthquakes. Each year, natural disasters displace families, disrupt livelihoods, and strain access to food, clean water, and shelter. Food insecurity remains a serious concern, with many households struggling to meet daily nutritional needs and children at risk of malnutrition. Zakat Foundation of America provides vital emergency relief to families affected by natural disasters, supporting recovery in the aftermath of typhoons and flooding. Our work also strengthens food security through Seasonal Islamic Giving, including Ramadan food assistance and Udhiyah-Qurbani, ensuring families receive nutritious meals during times of greatest need. In addition, we improve community resilience through water projects that expand access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, while supporting orphaned children and strengthening community infrastructure.
Our Impact in the Philippines
Stories of Change
Nourishing Communities Through Food & Water
Mustahil Halipa
Mustahil Halipa is 55 years old and a Person with Disability (PWD) of Zamboanga City. He is the team leader of this Barangay Water Association (BAWASA) despite his disabilities. Mr. Halipa and his wife have five children ranging from 6-15 years old. Mr. Halipa’s means of income is vegetable farming with the help of his wife and children. During the Zamboanga siege in 2013, Mr. Halipa lost his home due to a fire. He transferred to a government housing program for the displaced. Their resettled location has no basic services like water, school or health centers. His family and neighbors used to walk over a mile to fetch their drinking water. Upon hearing this, Zakat Foundation of America installed water wells within their location. This installation has enabled the community to have access to clean drinking water.
Mrs. Apipah
Mrs. Apipah, 64, hails from Marawi City, Lanao del Sur and is among the internally displaced persons (IDPs) during the Marawi Siege. Her family now reside alongside other Muslim families who also face housing problems. Mrs. Apipah sells socks and face towels in the famous Baguio City Night Market. She starts at 9pm and packs up at 1am. She expressed profound gratitude to Zakat Foundation of America for extending in-kind assistance to her community. It is such a great help to her family considering her modest income. The groceries served as essential items for their sahoor and iftar. According to her, with the food packages, they can observe Ramadan with ease and less worry. Mrs. Apipah’s story exemplifies resilience and strength amid adversity.
Captured Moments: A Glimpse of Our Work
Eid gifts for orphaned children ensure joy is spread around
Food security ensures everyone is helped
Our sponsored orphan busy learning
Ramadan a month of blessings and giving
Ramadan food packages mean nourishing iftars
Spreading joy with food packages
Working together to impact lives
Children are excited to break their fast on warm, nourishing iftar meals
Our team is ready to have a fun-filled day with our orphans for Eid
Families stand ready to receive your Udhiyah-Qurbani shares
Our sponsored orphans enjoy a day of fun and games during Eid celebrations
Our teams distributed Udhiyah-Qurbani meat to local families
Ramadan food packages bring a sense of comfort to families in need of essentials
Residents line up to collect Udhiyah-Qurbani shares
The smile says it all; thank you for your support
When you share your plate you provide a filling iftar meal to families in need
Your sponsored Eid gift ensures our orphans feel loved and included in the celebrations
Help The Philippines Now
Emergency Relief
Help victims of disaster & violent conflict recover and heal. Give $100 for Emergency Relief.
Give to Emergency ReliefEducation
Providing access to education & creating powerful antidotes to unrest, distrust, & war.
Give to EducationFood Security
Delivering urgent food in Ramadan & year round to relieve starvation. Give $50 for Food Security.
Give to Food SecuritySadaqah Jariyah
When you give Sadaqah Jariyah, you are providing a lifeline that keeps on giving.
Give to Sadaqah JariyahSeasonal Giving
Additional opportunities to provide more aid throughout the world.
Give to Seasonal Islamic Giving
