IHS holds annual fundraising event to assist Somalia

The Islamic Heritage Society (IHS), headed by Mrs. Souad Al-Otaibi, wife of the Kuwaiti Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Mansour Al-Otaibi, on Thursday held its annual charity Eid luncheon, with proceeds going to help drought and famine-affected Somali areas through the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF).The fundraising event, held at the Turkish Cultural Centre, was attended by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's wife Soon-taek and a great number of prominent and respected Muslim and non-Muslim figures from inside and outside the UN family.Welcoming her guests, Mrs. Al-Otaibi said "this year we turn our attention to one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world - the famine in Somalia. Thousands of people are being affected by famine and it is our duty to help them." According to press reports, famine has been declared in six regions in southern Somalia.The guests enjoyed food from various Islamic countries and Arabic music played by a local band. The total amount of the proceeds has not been disclosed as checks continued to pour in. IHS is a non-profit charity organization that seeks to aid those in need around the world, both in Muslim and non-Muslim countries.It was founded in 1993 by the wives of Muslim Permanent Representatives to the UN and of staff members of the UN Secretariat, as well as local American citizens and residents, to share and preserve their history and culture.Its activities include fundraising events, organization lectures, monthly cultural and social programs, cooperation with other cultural organizations, Islamic holiday receptions and help new diplomatic wives adjust to their new life in New York.