Short Term Versus Long Term Charity: Which Has Greater Impact? 

When we give for the sake of Allah (swt), we all hope to make a real difference.  

But one question often arises: Should we focus on meeting urgent needs now, or on building lasting change for the future? 

At The Zahra Trust, we believe the most powerful impact comes when these two approaches come together.  

Emergency aid and sustainable charity are not in competition: they are two sides of the same coin, each vital in its own way. 

And when used together, you could be a part of a movement of compassion, hope, and unity; following in the footsteps of our noble Ahlulbayt (as). 

What Does the Quran Say About Charity? 

Islamic teachings emphasise both responding swiftly to those in distress and ensuring ongoing support for long-term wellbeing. 

The Holy Quran states:  

“And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [saying], ‘We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.’” (Quran 76:8-9) 

The Quran states again: 

“The parable of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is as the parable of a grain growing seven ears, in every ear, there are a hundred grains; and Allah multiplies for whom He pleases; Allah is Ample-giving, All- knowing.” (Quran 2:261) 

These verses show how Islam encourages both immediate generosity and the kind of giving that multiplies over time. 

What is the Power of Short-Term Charity? 

Short-term charity is about now.  

When disaster strikes, winter arrives, or food runs out, your generosity becomes a lifeline. 

Thanks to you, The Zahra Trust responds to urgent needs with: 

• Winter relief: Distributing warm clothing and blankets to children and elderly in freezing conditions. 

• Emergency food packs: Delivered to families fleeing conflict or facing natural disasters. 

• Medical aid: Immediate treatment and supplies where healthcare is inaccessible. 

Last year, you helped us reach 33,774 people during the winter of 2024, which included:  

• 15,620 people with warm and nourishing food  

• 621 people with protective winter clothing  

• 73 people with new heating systems for their homes 

These acts of short-term charity save lives. But survival is only the beginning. 

What is the Strength of Long-Term Charity? 

Long-term charity is about the future. 

It builds stability, restores faith, and helps families break free from cycles of poverty. 

Because of your ongoing support, The Zahra Trust has: 

• Built schools and funded education for orphans and vulnerable children. 

• Supported widows and caregivers with vocational training and micro-finance. 

• Rebuilt homes and communities after floods, earthquakes, and war. 

This is how your charity becomes a legacy: not just changing lives today, but transforming generations to come. 

Learn more here about our long-term aid work, including how microfinance is changing the future for young girls and women! 

Urgent Help and Lasting Hope 

We often think we must choose between helping now or investing in the future. But the most powerful impact happens when we do both. 

Short-term charity saves a child from hunger today. 

Long-term charity ensures they won’t go hungry tomorrow. 

Thanks to your compassion, The Zahra Trust is able to respond to emergencies and build lasting solutions. Families are not just supported, they are empowered. 

When you give, whether it’s a meal, a blanket, a book, or a brick, you are not just easing hardship. You are walking with a family on their journey from crisis to resilience. 

It is your kindness, your belief, and your trust that brings relief today and rebuilds hope for tomorrow. 

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