Staff Correspondent, Cox’s Bazar: In a humanitarian effort to support vulnerable communities, ISDE Bangladesh on Wednesday distributed food assistance among 1,500 underprivileged and low-income families in B.M. Char Union of Chakaria Upazila in Cox’s Bazar district.
The distribution programme began at 10:00am and provided essential food items to beneficiary households affected by poverty, disasters and ongoing economic hardship. The initiative was funded by the Saudi Arabia-based King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center and implemented by ISDE Bangladesh.
Organizers said the organization had earlier distributed food assistance to another 1,500 families in Pekua Upazila and Magnama Union. Under the ongoing programme, nearly 27,000 people across different parts of Cox’s Bazar district, including Rohingya refugee camps, have so far received humanitarian support.
Among those present at the event were ISDE Bangladesh Executive Director S. M. Nazer Hossain, Programme Coordinators Jahangir Alam, Mustak Ahmed, Tajul Islam and Supam Barua.
Speaking as the chief guest, Chairman of 12 No. Bhaola Manikchar Union Parishad S. M. Jahangir Alam praised the initiative, saying many families are living in severe hardship due to disasters and economic challenges.
“Such humanitarian activities set a remarkable example of standing beside helpless people. Affluent individuals and organizations should come forward to support those in need,” he said.
ISDE Bangladesh Executive Director S. M. Nazer Hossain said the organization has long been working to reduce human suffering through humanitarian programmes.
“We are trying to bring both local communities and Rohingya refugees under humanitarian assistance. These activities will continue in the future as well,” he added.
The beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the support amid rising living costs.
Rahima Begum, one of the recipients, said the assistance came as a great relief for her family at a time when prices of daily necessities have increased significantly.
Another beneficiary, Abdul Karim, said irregular day labour opportunities had made it difficult to support his family and the aid provided temporary relief.
Local public representatives attending the programme included Ward members Enamul Haque, Abdul Hamid, Jamal Uddin, Abdun Nabi, Idris Ahmed and Md. Yunus, along with reserved women members Bulbul Jannat and Chhenuara Begum, among others.
Organizers said ISDE Bangladesh is committed to ensuring transparency and fairness in aid distribution so that assistance reaches the actual deserving beneficiaries.