Zakat for Orphans: What You Need to Know Before You Give
Giving Zakat for orphans in Islam is one of the most impactful ways to fulfill your obligation while supporting children in need. As a Muslim charity based in the USA, Muslim Hands USA ensures your Zakat reaches eligible needy children.
When you give your Zakat with us, you're not just fulfilling a pillar of Islam; you're uplifting a vulnerable child through education, nourishment, and long-term care.
Can I Give Zakat to Orphans in Islam?
Yes, you can if the orphan falls under one of the eight eligible categories for Zakat in the Qur'an. Often, orphaned children qualify as al-masakeen (the needy) or al-fuqara (the poor).
Children who have lost one or both parents and lack financial support, especially in conflict zones or poverty-stricken areas, are often eligible for Zakat.
"Zakat expenditures are only for the poor and for the needy..."
(Qur'an 9:60)
Why Support Orphans with Zakat and Sadaqah?
Orphans are mentioned over 20 times in the Qur'an. Islam emphasizes their care as an act of mercy and a test of sincerity.
Supporting orphans with Zakat and Sadaqah fulfills your religious duties and creates lasting change. It helps fund education, meals, and medical care, building futures rooted in dignity.
How Muslim Hands USA Distributes Zakat for Orphaned Children
Your Zakat directly supports children in Yemen, Mali, The Gambia, Pakistan, and other underserved regions. We work with trusted, on-the-ground partners to:
- Cover school fees, supplies, and uniforms
- Provide access to healthcare and emotional support
- Offer transportation and nutritious meals
Because we do not use third-party intermediaries, your Zakat reaches children directly, efficiently, and with dignity.
Zakat vs Sadaqah: What's the Difference in Islamic Giving?
- Zakat: An annual obligation based on your wealth.
- Sadaqah: Voluntary charity, anytime and any amount.
- Sadaqah Jariyah: Ongoing charity, such as funding education.
Supporting an orphan often counts as Zakat and Sadaqah Jariyah, primarily when it funds long-term benefits.
Want to calculate your Zakat? Use our Zakat Calculator.
Does Orphan Sponsorship Count as Zakat?
If the orphan qualifies as poor or needy and your donation is used entirely for their benefit, it can fulfill your Zakat.
At Muslim Hands USA, our vetting process ensures your donation complies with Islamic guidelines. We monitor each child's well-being, verifying your Zakat is appropriately used.
Global Orphan Crisis: Why Your Zakat is Urgently Needed
- Orphaned children face higher risks of trafficking, hunger, and illness.
Your Zakat helps break this cycle, restoring dignity and safety.
Step-by-Step: How to Give Zakat for Orphan Sponsorship
- Use our Zakat Calculator to determine your amount.
- Choose the Orphan Sponsorship Program or Education Fund.
- Give online and receive updates on your impact.
Ready to give? Your Zakat plants seeds of mercy and hope.
Support the Future. Give Zakat Today.
When you give Zakat to orphans, you're doing more than giving charity. You're investing in futures, honoring your faith, and uplifting a child in need.
Click here to Sponsor an Orphan.
Prefer long-term impact? Support our Sadaqah Jariyah Appeal.
More Information about Zakat
