FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is the IFS?
   A: The IFS is a group of dedicated men, women and youth who are working together to assist any family or individual who is facing a difficult situation.
2. What is the history of IFS? A: The IFS is a new initiative which has brought together those groups & individuals in our communities who were already helping resolve issues facing families in CT. Recognizing the growing need for concerted action, the IWG (Islamic Women’s Group), the IFS (Islamic Family Services) and MAIKAH, in addition to many individuals across the state of Connecticut, have all come together to form the IFS.
3. What are the goals of the IFS? A: Initially, IFS has functioned as a loose affiliation of organizations and individuals exchanging information to help needy families. It has now become clear that the IFS must serve a vital function with a more formal, full-time structure that will help families facing difficulties in a more holistic way, In Shaa Allah.
4. What kind of services does the IFS provide? A: The IFS is providing a wide range of services, including the following;
   1. To facilitate information exchange across the state to assist any family in need
   2. To serve as a liaison between the state/ federal governmental social services and those it serves
   3. To provide counseling and guidance via professional counselors, therapists, religious leaders and supportive “Community builders”
   4. To support those in need with technical assistance, resources and access to enable those people who it is serving to become beneficial members of society
   5. To provide support for the family and their children to achieve physical, psychological and educational goals
   6. To organize educational workshops to benefit the community
   7. To provide a transitional home for families in need of temporary housing
5. Does IFS provide financial assistance? A: The IFS hopes to provide a limited amount of financial assistance thru the donations of generous individuals in the community. Over the years, members of the IFS have found out that the majority of assistance has gone to families/ individuals for the payment of their rent. With a transitional home facility, the IFS hopes that such families will be able to find some financial stability by using the temporary/ transitional home
6. How does the IFS help strengthen family care? A: The IFS provides the following to strengthen the family unit:
   1. Parenting support
   2. Health and nutrition, programs and advice
   3. Educational programs and help
   4. Psycho-Social support
   5. Strategies to strengthen the economical position of the family
7. How can I help? A: You can help by:
   1. Volunteering your time
   2. Helping with your professional expertise
   3. Sharing your zakat and sadaqah fund for the different projects of the IFS
   4. Informing the IFS of any family that is in need
   5. Helping us to improve and better serve the community at large