Connecting donors and recipients through bKash's donation feature

"My father used to host Iftar for a few people every day during the month of Ramadan at our Dinajpur home. Though it has been three years since he passed away, I am continuing his humane effort.

It's true that I myself can't prepare iftar for the needy due to busy work life but surely can donate to an organisation that arranges iftar for the right people," said Touhidul Islam. He has been donating Tk 120 daily through bKash app during the month of Ramadan to MASTUL Foundation. With that money, the charity organisation can arrange iftar for three people. He said, "My father used to say that there is no peace like feeding underprivileged people. By following his path, I can feel the peace that my father used to talk about at least to some extent."

In a bid to make charity more accessible and efficient, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, bKash has streamlined the process for donating to various charitable organisations across Bangladesh. During Ramadan, a time when the spirit of giving and community support is emphasised, bKash's initiative aims to facilitate easier donations for those looking to help the underprivileged with Sehri and Iftar meals.

In addition to MASTUL Foundation, a number of people like Touhid have also been donating to about 40 different charitable and voluntary organisations directly from bKash app. The notable ones include -- Anjuman Mufidul Islam, Dhaka Ahsania Mission, Bangladesh Thalassemia Foundation, As-sunnah Foundation, Center for Zakat Management, Mojar School, Obhizatrik Foundation, JAAGO Foundation, DoNation Foundation Trust, SOS Children Village Bangladesh, Prothom Alo Trust, JAAGO Foundation, Mirzapur Ex-Cadets' Association, Chief Advisor's Relief and Welfare Fund, July Shaheed Smrity Foundation, icddr'b, National Liver Foundation of Bangladesh, Quantum Foundation, Shakti Foundation, SAJIDA Foundation, etc.

Shahida and her two children with thalassemia are among the beneficiaries of Zakat Fund of Bangladesh Thalassemia Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to help and support thalassemia patients. Shahida, living in a village of Mirzapur in Tangail, said, "My Husband left me many years ago and it has been two decades since I have had the chance to visit my in-laws. It was beyond my capacity to cover the medical expenses the two children with thalassemia. Even though I work as a day labourer, it was almost impossible to provide medical services with that income. Due to the lack of proper treatment, my eldest son Al-Amin did not grow physically even at the age of 15. I begged from door to door to save my children, but the help wasn't enough."

Bangladesh Thalassemia Foundation has stood by Shahida in her difficult struggle. Her children are now receiving treatment with the foundation's Zakat fund. Using donations from across the country through mobile financial services like bKash, the foundation has ensured the necessary treatment for Shahida's children. Thousands of helpless parents like Shahida bring their thalassemia-affected children to the Thalassemia Foundation Hospital in the hope of getting help.

Jannatul Ferdous, a doctor of Thalassemia Foundation, said, "The foundation has 7,500 registered patients, who are being provided with medical care and financial assistance. Anyone can donate to us as per their ability. Donations can be made in various ways. The most convenient method for donors from across the country to send us donation has been bKash."

Launched in 2020, the 'Donation' feature in the bKash app represents a significant step towards leveraging technology to enhance charity in Bangladesh. Through this initiative, bKash aims to encourage more people to participate in philanthropic activities, thereby making a positive impact on the lives of the less fortunate. However, donations are not limited to only Ramadan; the platform allows for year-round contributions towards causes like education, healthcare, and support for orphans and the destitute. Details about donation through bKash can be seen in the following link --https://www.bkash.com/en/products-services/donation.