Zakat Foundation of America: Muslim Humanitarian Charity Serving Locally and Globally

The Zakat Foundation of America (ZF) is one of the most prominent Muslim humanitarian organizations based in the United States. Founded in 2001, ZF operates with the mission of putting zakat, sadaqah, and charitable giving into practice by serving people in need—Muslim and non-Muslim alike—across the U.S. and around the world. With its headquarters in Bridgeview, Illinois, the foundation has grown into a trusted name in international relief and community development.

Mission and Vision

The foundation’s mission is deeply rooted in the Islamic principle of zakat: redistributing wealth to uplift the poor and vulnerable. Its vision extends beyond faith boundaries, focusing on building a world where compassion, justice, and dignity are accessible to all.

ZF operates with the principle that charity is not only about financial aid, but also about restoring human dignity through sustainable programs and long-term solutions.

Programs and Activities

1. Emergency Relief

   • ZF responds quickly to natural disasters, wars, and humanitarian crises. From delivering food in Gaza and Syria to providing earthquake relief in Turkey and Pakistan, its teams are often among the first on the ground.

2. Food Security

   • The foundation runs food pantries in the U.S., distributes Ramadan iftar meals, and provides meat packages during Eid al-Adha (Qurbani/Udhiyah). These programs benefit both Muslims and non-Muslims.

3. Education and Orphan Support

   • ZF supports thousands of orphans worldwide, offering not just food and shelter but also school enrollment, uniforms, and healthcare.

   • It funds scholarships for underprivileged students, both domestically and internationally.

4. Health and Medical Aid

   • ZF provides healthcare facilities, mobile clinics, and medical supplies in underserved areas, particularly in war-torn regions.

5. Community Development

   • In the U.S., ZF runs initiatives such as winter coat drives, refugee resettlement support, and local homeless outreach programs.

   • Globally, it invests in water wells, sanitation projects, and livelihood training programs to promote self-reliance.

Impact in the United States

While ZF is known for its international humanitarian work, its domestic impact is equally significant:

• Food pantries in Chicago and other U.S. cities serve struggling families.

• Local zakat and sadaqah funds help with rent, utilities, and emergency needs.

• Interfaith partnerships have expanded the foundation’s ability to serve non-Muslim communities, strengthening social cohesion.

Transparency and Accountability

One of the reasons the Zakat Foundation of America is widely respected is its commitment to transparency. The organization publishes annual financial reports, ensuring donors know where their contributions are going. This openness has earned ZF recognition from independent charity evaluators like Charity Navigator.

Why Zakat Foundation of America Stands Out

• Faith-inspired, but universal in reach – Serving Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

• Quick response to crises – Always among the first to mobilize aid.

• Community-driven – Works closely with local leaders and volunteers.

• Sustainable programs – Focuses on long-term empowerment, not just short-term relief.