Sovereign Avenue School Becomes Center of Hope During ICNA Relief Winter Giveaway

ATLANTIC CITY — As cold temperatures began to settle over South Jersey, the gymnasium at Sovereign Avenue School became a refuge of warmth, compassion, and community. The Islamic Circle of North America Relief (ICNA Relief) hosted its annual Winter Mega Giveaway and health fair here on Sunday, November 23, 2025.

The event transformed the space into a bustling distribution center filled with volunteers, families, and neighbors from across the city and surrounding communities. Residents lined up throughout the morning and afternoon to receive critical winter essentials — from food and clothing to hygiene items and health screenings — all provided free of charge.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. La’Quetta S. Small praised the collaboration between the school district and ICNA Relief, emphasizing the importance of partnerships that go beyond the classroom.

“Atlantic City Public Schools was proud to open the doors of Sovereign Avenue School to ICNA Relief for its Winter Mega Giveaway, an initiative that provided critical support to families across our community,” said Dr. Small. “We are always open to meaningful partnerships that support the well-being of our students and families beyond the classroom. We applaud ICNA Relief and all volunteers who made this event possible and thank them for the positive impact they continue to have in Atlantic City.”

Sovereign Avenue School Principal Nicole Israel echoed that sentiment, saying the event reflects the power of partnership in meeting community needs.

“Community partnerships are important,” Israel said. “We’re always glad that we are meeting the needs of the individuals we serve, especially during difficult times.”

A Mission Rooted in Local Compassion

ICNA Relief’s presence in Atlantic City is part of a broader national effort. The organization operates 44 offices across the United States, offering services ranging from disaster relief and hunger prevention to refugee support and health initiatives. But for ICNA Relief leaders, the work starts at home.

Hasan Bashir, outreach and project coordinator for ICNA Relief’s New Jersey office, said the organization places special emphasis on serving local communities first.

“When we talk about relief and we talk about helping others, our neighbors come first,” Bashir said. “Then we can think about, and help others around the globe.”

Bashir noted that Atlantic City has long been a focus area for the organization, particularly in light of ongoing economic challenges and uncertainty around federal assistance programs like SNAP.

“We came here, we gathered volunteers from the community, and they helped us set up this whole arena,” he said. “Thousands have contacted us. Hundreds have shown up, and they received day-to-day items that we provided so they can get through the cold season in a better way.”

From School Gym to Community Lifeline

Inside the gym, rows of tables were stacked with canned goods, winter clothing, boots, shoes, and personal hygiene items. Cheerful signage and organized volunteer stations helped maintain a smooth flow as families moved through the distribution areas.

Farhana Matin, ICNA Relief’s New Jersey Area Manager, said returning to Atlantic City for community giveaways after the pandemic felt especially meaningful.

“Giving back is something that we have to do,” Matin said. “This is our responsibility as a community organization.”

Along with supplies, the event also featured free health screenings. Medical professionals volunteered their time to conduct blood pressure checks and basic wellness assessments, giving residents access to health resources that are not always easily available.

Respect, Dignity, and Unity

Organizers stressed that the event was about more than just distribution — it was about treating every person with dignity.

“The number one rule of today’s event is to give respect to each and every client who is coming,” Bashir said. “They are our guests, and we have to treat them in the best way possible.”

Families expressed appreciation for the support, while volunteers described a sense of purpose in helping their neighbors prepare for the winter months.

By opening its doors and partnering with ICNA Relief, Sovereign Avenue School once again served as more than a place of learning — it became a center of both service and unity for the Atlantic City community.

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