Opening the community doors
502. Mohammed Sheraz
Mohammed partnered with the Al-Khair Foundation and led a team of 100 volunteers to help in the clear up operation in his community.
Mohammed Sheraz saw the devastation the floods were causing in his local area of Rochdale and immediately decided to open up the Gower Street Youth Centre around the clock to give residents access to gas, electricity, food and blankets.
The Al-Khair Foundation, a UK-based NGO providing humanitarian support and disaster relief; they normally operate abroad, but came to the rescue to support Rochdale and carry out a needs assessment. With the charity’s help, Mohammed led a team of 100 volunteers to help in the clear up operation. Mohammed inspired the volunteers who have since joined the Al-Khair Foundation. He is now working with the charity to put together a disaster response team and plan for any future flooding.
Today the Prime Minister recognised Mohammed’s award alongside the rest of this week’s winners who also gave their time and energy to support their local community through the recent floods.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
“This week as we mark our 500th Point of Light I am delighted to celebrate the service of Mohammed and others like him who helped those affected by last winter’s floods. Mohammed inspired a fantastic number of people to join in the flood response in Rochdale, giving a massive boost to the local community.”
Mohammed said:
“I am humbled to receive this award. I would like to thank all the volunteers that gave up their time during the recent floods – they came together at a time of difficulty to help residents and vulnerable people to ensure that they were safe. The resilience of the Rochdale people was evident and everyone pulled together to help each other. I accept this award on behalf of all the volunteers who helped on the day.”