An interfaith fundraising gala in central London has raised £250,000 in a single evening to support humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza.
The “To Gaza With Love” dinner, held on Saturday 14 February at the London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square, brought together faith leaders, community representatives and philanthropists from across the UK.
The event was organised by Donate Directly, founded by Pakistani investigative journalist Iqrar Ul Hassan, in partnership with SimplePR & Events.
Organisers described the evening as a show of unity across religious and cultural lines, with speakers from Sikh, Jewish, Christian and Muslim backgrounds addressing the audience.
Among those taking to the stage were Ravi Singh, Chief Executive of Khalsa Aid, Rabbi Beck and Rabbi Sofer, Osama Qashoo of Palestine House, Bishop Joel Thomas and Saira Hayati, Ambassador for Donate Directly.
A fundraising appeal led by Tariq Sheikh generated the majority of the pledges, with organisers confirming that £250,000 was committed on the night for urgent aid.
The programme also featured entertainment, including a performance by comedian Sundeep Bhardwaj and a traditional Dabke display by Palestinian dance group Dabke Roots, which received a standing ovation from guests.
A spokesperson for Donate Directly said the evening demonstrated how communities can come together “beyond division” in response to humanitarian need.
Nafila Khan, Founder of SimplePR & Events, said the collaboration aimed to create a platform for solidarity and collective action, adding that the response from attendees had been “overwhelming”.
Organisers indicated that the gala could become an annual event focused on interfaith cooperation and humanitarian support.
The funds raised will be directed towards relief efforts for families affected by the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
