A Newcastle taxi driver is preparing to travel to Pakistan to help flood-hit families struggling to survive.
Raja Khalid Khan, from West Fenham, felt compelled to take action after hearing of the plight of those affected by the devastating floods caused by monsoon rains over the summer. Huge parts of the country are underwater and millions of people have been left homeless and in need of urgent supplies.
In an effort to raise urgent funds, Raja organised a charity dinner at Hadrian Suite in Denton Burn on September 25, which saw 200 people enjoy an evening of music and entertainment. The event raised £25,000 through ticket sales and a raffle, with funds going towards food and vital items for people in Pakistan.
Now Raja, who is a Conservative campaigner for West Fenham ward, and friend Zafer Hussain, are getting ready to travel to Pakistan on Wednesday, October 5, where they will spend two weeks buying and delivering essential items to those in need.
"Lots of people and families came along to the charity event to enjoy the food and music," he said.
"It was a nice event and we managed to raise £25,000. Me and my friend are now going to Pakistan to deliver supplies.
"We are paying for the tickets there out of our own pockets and only using the money from the charity event on the supplies and transporting them from one place to another.
"We are delivering tents, winter clothing, mosquito nets, and dry milk for young children. We will also be donating at least one month's worth of food for needy families."
Donations to the appeal can be made to the Al Rehman Welfare project Ltd charity no. 1158872. Sort code: 772033 and account number: 37537680
READ NEXT:
- Die-hard Newcastle United fan's anger as Castore top fails to arrive three months on
- Former firefighter receives hundreds of cards for 109th birthday after Cramlington care home's touching appeal
- Ice skating returns to Newcastle this Christmas - when it's on and how much it will cost
- Newcastle Restaurant Week gives £1.5m boost to city after hungry Geordies snap up tasty deals
- NUFC's Bruno Guimaraes, Alexander Isak and Joelinton wow staff in Newcastle's Miller & Carter
