U.S. Consulate Hosts Iftaar At “Home For Poor Boys”

U.S. Consul General Simkin speaking to the children of the Home for Poor Boys of the Madrasa-i-Azam during the iftaar. Seated at the table (left to right) are: Mr. Kaplan, Dr. Ameen and Mrs. Simkin

The U.S. Consulate General-Chennai hosted an iftaar for 150 boys, ranging from 5-15 years, at the “Home for Poor Boys” of the Madrasa-i-Azam, Chennai on September 12, 2008.   Speaking on the occasion, Consul General Andrew Simkin highlighted the rapid growth and interest in Islam in the United States.  He felt that Islam and Muslims had contributed richly towards making the United States a multicultural and multi-religious society.  The Consulate has close ties with the Madrasa-i-Azam where it runs a successful “Access English” program providing English language classes to some 50 children of that institution.  Dr. Syed M.M. Ameen, President, Home for Poor Boys, thanked the Consulate for its continuing support for the education of children from underprivileged families.  Mrs. Simkin, Consul for Public Affairs Fred Kaplan and other Consulate staff joined Mr. Simkin, Dr. Ameen and the teachers and children of the Home for Poor Boys for a delicious biryani dinner.