Area residents in need of a helping hand during the winter season have a new option.

The Islamic Center of North America’s Richmond chapter opened a new resource center last week at 3009 Lafayette Ave. in Lakeside.

“The response has been very well-received and overwhelming,” said Hamna Saleem, outreach coordinator for ICNA Relief Richmond. “We’re really grateful to have this space where we can finally reach our full potential.”

ICNA Relief Richmond’s new center seeks to provide a wide variety of services for people of all faiths and backgrounds, including a food pantry and basic skill training in areas like computer literacy and budgeting. Education for those learning English as a second language also is provided at the center, alongside counseling opportunities and other services.

Virtual options for some of these services are available, as well as curbside pickup of any needed relief items to ensure safety and health during the pandemic.

The resource center serves as the next major step in ICNA Richmond’s development in community outreach since it was first formed in March last year. Organizers initially expected the effort to last through the pandemic, but the need in the community convinced them to take a long-term approach.

“We’re definitely going to be here long term,” Ms. Saleem said. “Hopefully, we’ll be here for a very long time to help the community in whatever capacity we can.”

ICNA Richmond has organized several efforts to aid people in need, including monthly curbside food assistance in Henrico County and school supply distribution in Chesterfield County. This has allowed them to build a rapport with the Richmond area’s underserved communities, as well as foster connections and partnerships with local organizations they believe will pay dividends for the resource center.

“Our goal is to reach as many people in need as possible, and having these connections throughout the community definitely does help us,” Ms. Saleem said.

The resource center is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, with weekend food pantry distributions to be advertised ahead of schedule.

Details: Ms. Saleem, (866) 354-0102, ext. 1610, or email hamna.saleem@icnarelief.org.