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Build A Water Well For Dr. Bachar Elsolh

The Canadian Muslim Forum (FMC-CMF) would like to share with the public its initiative for a fundraising campaign as a Sadaqah Jareyah (Continuous charity) in the name of our beloved brother Dr Bashar Elsoh may his soul rest in peace.

For this fundraising campaign, we chose a Canadian charitable organization, IDRF: International Development and Relief Foundation; which is a Canadian registered charitable organization dedicated to empowering the disadvantaged people of the world.

This campaign of sadaqah jareyah (Continuous charity) is targeting all friends and community members who have known and worked with Dr Bashar. This is an opportunity for all of us to say thank you, to honour his work, and to show our appreciation for everything that he has done for our communities. This sadaqah jereyah is one of the most important act of charity. The virtues of such deeds lie in the reward, which continues even after the death of the person; it does not cease at his death.

“When a person dies, his works end, except for three: ongoing charity, knowledge that is benefited from, and a righteous child who prays for him.” [Muslim, Tirmidhi].

We ask from Allah swt to accept this action, our intentions and to reward each and all of you for your prayers and for every dollar that you will give to help us build a water system in Gaza. We know that Dr Bashar was also a man who led many charitable projects around the world, and that Gaza is a place very dear to his heart.

To honour his legacy and to walk in his footsteps; we highly encourage you all to participate in this campaign, to share the link and to encourage others to donate. Every dollar counts, and it's never too little.

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A Message from Soumaya Elsolh (Daughter of Dr. Bachar Elsolh)

" Dr. Bachar Elsolh will be remembered by his wisdom, his love for helping others, and above all his deep generosity. He found great joy in giving back to others in need. His endless love for so many communities truly represented his heart’s ability to grow, expand, and seek countless ways to help those in difficult circumstances. Gaza was a big part of his heart. We, the family of Dr. Bachar El Solh, would be humbled to extend his legacy by continuing to donate to campaigns that represent the essence of Dr El Solh’s giving nature. We invite his dear friends and loved ones to donate generously on behalf of his soul to CMF and IRDF to build a well for the needy ". 

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IDRF’s Water Well Project Description

One water well provides water to 7,500 people, 1250 families 

In Gaza, IDRF builds water systems that are architecturally unique from the traditional water wells. The water source from these wells are distributed through piping to support hospitals, schools, agricultural land, public places such as parks, charities, as well as the most vulnerable residential homes. Additionally, these water sources will be equipped with a chlorine system to clarify the water for safe use. 

These advanced technology water systems will produce 20 cubic meters of water per hour. Each water system will have the capacity of 15 HP (horsepower) allowing the consumption of the direct beneficiaries for five hours without electricity. Each water system will also have its own license from Palestinian water authorities. This is a great aspect of regulation, as it ensures that water is being extracted in a sustainable manner. 

The superiority and robust engineering of these water systems, along with the factors mentioned above all tie into the price point of our wells in Gaza. 

The Situation 

Across Gaza, sources of clean, potable water are extremely scarce. Approximately two million Gazans suffer from a shortage of water, which gets exponentially worse during the summer. 

Over 97% of water extracted from Gaza aquifers is unfit for human consumption. 

Ongoing water inspections by the Palestinian Water Authority (PWA) and the Coastal Municipalities Water Utility (CMWU) in Gaza continue to report high concentrations of chloride, nitrate, and salinity in their water. This makes it extremely unsafe to consume leading to an entire population with little to no access to water. 

FAQs

How much clean water will locals have access to with these wells? 

The water wells will produce 20 cubic meters of water per hour. Each water well has the capacity of 15 HP (horsepower), allowing the consumption of the direct beneficiaries for five hours without electricity. Additionally, the wells will be equipped with a chlorine system added to clarify the water when needed. 

Are these wells Zakat eligible? 

No. Due to the fact that water wells belong to the community, we cannot provide "ownership" to a single person. Furthermore, it is not guaranteed that the wells are only used by Muslims. For these reasons, we cannot deem these wells Zakat-eligible. 

Are there maintenance costs? 

No. Once the well is built, our field team in Gaza will periodically check in on the wells, and ensure that things are running smoothly. 

What is the expected time of completion? 

The organisers of a water well in Gaza can expect a final report regarding the completion of a Gaza well within 12 months from the day funds are released to IDRF. This report will include photos of the well in action and other significant details. 

Are there any additional benefits of these water wells? 

Definitely. Due to water shortages, farmers in Gaza are compelled to alter their traditional livelihoods and grow crops that are less water-intensive and also less profitable. Now, with the help of these advanced water wells, farmers will be able to irrigate nearby farmland and grow citrus fruits, which are known to be more profitable as farmers are capable of exporting them. 

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