The season of Arbaeen is upon us, once again. Millions of pilgrims, from all corners of the globe, make their way to the city of Karbala to pay their respects to Imam Hussain (as), his brother Abbas (as), and the rest of the Karbala martyrs. Many of these pilgrims walk towards Karbala from various cities and towns across Iraq; some travel on foot for 2 weeks from as far as the city of Basra!
Arbaeen (the “fortieth”) signifies a renewal of commitment to the values and teachings of Imam Hussain (as) and his family and companions. These include standing up for justice, equality, and dignity of all human beings.
Imam Hussain (as) and his family and companions also teach us the true meaning of giving for the sake and pleasure of God. In fact, they embodied sacrifice and giving by offering everything they had, including their own lives, for this noble cause.

As the Arbaeen season approaches, we are reminded of the countless deprived and disadvantaged orphans, widows, and refugees in Iraq. Due to the increased violence in recent months, the number of orphans and widows continues to grow, and many families have been forced to flee from their homes and seek refuge in other parts of the country, including the city of Karbala.
Arbaeen is a great opportunity for us to turn in assistance to these poverty-stricken families and put the values that we learn from Imam Hussain (as) into practice.
IECOC, in cooperation with Development and Relief Foundation (DRF), is accepting donations for the Arbaeen season. These donations will go to much-needed distribution of food and in-kind commodities, such as blankets, clothing, and shoes to the disadvantaged.
You may submit donations either directly to DRF through the site www.drfcharity.org, or also through the Islamic Educational Center of Orange County.
We pray that God blesses you and your families for your support.