Families come to Lucile Packard Childrenʼs Hospital from many states and countries, including children from Muslim families who are affected by conflict, displacement, and limited access to specialized care. Established in 2013, the Crescent Zakat Fund ensures
families receive the assistance and essentials they need.
In 2025, the Crescent Zakat Fund was featured for the first time as a beneficiary of Summer Scamper, our hospital’s largest community fundraiser. Thanks to the passion and dedication of team captain Raeef Bashir, 25 team members, and a community of donors, the Crescent Zakat Fund Scamper team raised over $100,000.
Gifts made to the Crescent Zakat Fund are distributed by our hospital’s Social Services team, which meets with patients and their families to identify their needs. In addition, the Spiritual Services team offers prayer rugs, Ramadan baskets, and other resources to show respect for families’ cultural customs and religious observations.
Kimberly Browne, LCSW, ACM-SW, ACSW, FACHE, executive director of Patient and Family Services (above, with check), recalls one family who received a child-friendly Eid gift bag at the end of Ramadan. “The small games and treats, as much for the cultural recognition and sense of belonging as for the items themselves,” she says.
We’re grateful to the donors who support the Crescent Zakat Fund, which has impacted the lives of more than 250 families since its inception.