LAHORE: The Cecil and Iris Chaudhry Foundation (CICF) on Saturday organised a Christmas Fair (Mela) to restore faith, hope, and trust among the Christians of Jaranwala.

The fair aimed to pacify and show empathy to the victims of the unfortunate incident that occurred on Aug 16 this year.

According to CICF press release, a large number of houses and churches were burnt and looted. Yet, the marginalised and underprivileged Christian community rose and celebrated the feast of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Addressing the participants, speakers appreciated the efforts and work of the CICF and shared their insights. Religious leaders emphasised that, apart from the relief work, there is a dire need for trauma and psycho-social well-being for the victims, especially the children.

In the welcome note, Ms. Chaudhry briefed the dignitaries and participants about the work of CICF and Jaranwala relief efforts.

“As a mother, I feel children and women suffered the most, and there has been no effort in this regard. Thus, we thought to do something for them, and even in our relief work, we focused on the children and women. At the CICF, we are not just engaging with the communities but trying our best to change their lives,” said Ms. Chaudhry.

The participants were mainly the victims of the Jaranwala incident and they fondly enjoyed the programme.

In the fair, there were free food stalls for families, games for the children, and a dedicated playing area decorated for the minors to play and enjoy different rides and games.

Published in Dawn, December 17th, 2023