“I felt the bullet hit me, and the sharp pain knocked me to the ground. My whole life flashed before my eyes. Was this the end? When I finally opened my eyes, I was in the hospital, surrounded by my family. The fear in their eyes told me something was terribly wrong. The doctor then gave me the news that changed everything—I would never walk again,” recalls Javed Tak, founder of Zaiba Aapa Institute of Inclusive Education in Kashmir.

In 1997, 21-year-old Javed was visiting his uncle’s house in Bijbehara, Anantnag, when gunmen attacked. He was shot in the spine while trying to protect his cousin. The injury left him paralyzed, damaging his spinal cord, kidney, pancreas, and intestines. He spent years confined to a bed and now uses a wheelchair.

But Javed refused to let his pain define his life. Instead, he turned it into a mission—to uplift children with special needs. In 2006, he founded Zaiba Aapa Institute of Inclusive Education, a school where differently-abled children can learn, grow, and find the dignity they deserve.

This Ramadan, as we reflect on kindness and giving, let’s help Javed continue his life-changing work.

A school built on love and acceptance

Javed’s journey was not easy. After spending years bedridden, he found hope in teaching. He started by educating 90 children for free, providing them with books, uniforms, and bags. But one question stayed with him—how do children with special needs access education in a world that often overlooks them?

Determined to change this, he started the school, ensuring it was fully accessible. Today, over 200 differently-abled children study here, supported by 25 staff members, including 10 specially trained teachers. Many of these children had faced severe discrimination, but at Zaiba Aapa, they found a place where they are loved, valued, and empowered.

This Ramadan, be a part of their journey

Javed and his team urgently need your support to continue their work. They need a vehicle to transport children from remote areas, physiotherapy equipment, wheelchairs, and groceries to provide nourishing meals during this holy month. Your Zakat, your Sadaqah, your kindness can change lives.

Give today and bring light into the lives of these incredible children.