poor

At this one-month anniversary of the earthquake, the death toll has climbed to 86,000 people according to a World Bank survey. However, it is the living and the injured who everyone is concerned might lose their lives if more help does not reach them fast enough.

Less than a year ago, it was the Tsunami. Last month it was Katrina & Rits. And now we have this earthquake in Kashmir. More than forty thousand people have perished and at least three million are homeless.

The focus on the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina must remain on its survivors as well as the ongoing marathon of hurricanes, which have doubled in 35 years. However, we cannot but wonder why Muslims have not given enough attention to bring in the limelight the tremendous outpouring of sympathy and financial resources for Katrina's victims.

What can you, a teenager who doesn't have a lot of money or resources, do to help the needy and poor? More than you think. Most young adults are blessed with the creativity and intelligence to find ways to help others despite limited resources. Here are some tips.

In today's world, where so many wake up in poverty and go to sleep hungry, each of us must ask: "How can I help?" It is a sin to waste food while others do not have enough to eat. The food we waste in America every year can feed 49 million people per year.

Those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah and do not follow up their spending by stressing their benevolence and causing hurt, will find their reward secure with their Lord. They have no cause for fear and grief.

Wouldn't it be great to give charity as a family? You can do this in a systematic way by setting up a family Sadaqa box in a particular spot of the house. Then, convince each person to put a portion of their allowance or salary in this box.