Mosques across Manchester have been opening their doors to homeless people to stop them having to spend a night in the freezing cold.
The Manchester Evening News reports that rough sleepers will be invited indoors on Friday evening as temperatures plummet further.
For the past few nights, both the Makki Masjid Mosque in Longsight and the European Islamic Centre in Oldham have been offering those in need a place to stay – as well as hot food and drink, and a place to wash and shower.
The Khizra Mosque in Cheetham Hill has also been open during the day, working with the Booth Centre to help the vulnerable.
A spokesman for Makki Masjid, on Beresford Road, said five people stayed overnight on Thursday, and that it would remain open on Friday.
Oldham councillor Fida Hussain said the European Islamic Centre will be open for the next seven days, or until the weather improves.
Khizra Masjid was open throughout Friday. Bosses said they would help anyone in need get overnight accommodation – and would cover travel costs.
Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on the latest news and updates from around the Muslim world!
A post on its Facebook page read: “We have had lots of enquiries about overnight stay at Khizra Mosque.
“For the purposes of clarification, We are assisting the vulnerable and needy during this exceptionally cold weather by providing, during the day only, refreshments, a hot meal and wash facilities. We are also working with the Booth Centre on this.
“For those looking for an overnight stay, we are directing them to the Oldham EIC and are willing to cover the cost of travel to the EIC. We pray for the wellbeing of all in our communities.”
