Across Indonesia, local governments and communities are stepping up to provide much-needed assistance to their most vulnerable members. From housing aid to food donations, these efforts illustrate a unified commitment to uplifting those in need.
On Saturday, March 22, 2025, M. Ibnu Hajar, the Vice Regent of Jepara, visited 65-year-old Sholeh in Desa Dongos, Kecamatan Kedung. This visit was prompted by community reports highlighting Sholeh's dire living conditions; he is unable to work due to illness and lives in a dilapidated house, relying on his wife’s income as a sander to meet their daily needs. Upon seeing the situation firsthand, Wabup Jepara responded with compassion, stating, "We have discussed this with relevant parties, and a proposal for rehabilitating his house is currently being submitted. Follow-up actions will be overseen by the Disperkim (Department of Public Housing and Settlements), Baznas Jepara, as well as the Kecamatan and Village Government."
According to data from Disperkim, Jepara Regency harbors around 9,000 uninhabitable houses needing rehabilitation. However, the local government can only cover about 100 units with the available regional budget. Hajar noted that while the county is actively seeking assistance from both the Central Government and the Province of Central Java for these renovations, community involvement remains essential. He encouraged local citizens to support the Gerakan Bulan Sedekah initiated by Baznas Jepara, a program designed to facilitate community donations that directly assist residents in need, thereby fostering a sense of collective responsibility.
Meanwhile, in West Sumatra, on Sunday, March 23, 2025, the Solok Regency Government provided housing renovation assistance to a family in Nagari Sibarambang, Kecamatan X Koto Diatas. Bupati Solok Jon Firman Pandu announced that the assistance was facilitated through the National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) after the family, led by Alhajisar, was identified as in urgent need of support. "This assistance serves as a tangible example of our government, Baznas, and the community working together to create shared welfare," Pandu stated. He expressed his hope that the aid would be effectively utilized and serve as an inspiration for continued cooperation and support within society.
Alhajisar expressed his gratitude, thanking representatives from the Solok Regency Government and Baznas for not only improving their living conditions but also renewing hope for his family. Additionally, the Solok Regency has continued its mission throughout the ongoing Ramadan month, providing housing support to five families with a combined total funding of Rp25 million, underscoring the ongoing commitment to enhance community welfare.
On the same date, a group from MTs Negeri 1 Mempawah journeyed to Kecamatan Sadaniang, Kabupaten Mempawah, to deliver groceries and clothing to converts in need. The group, including teachers and administrative staff, brought donations collected from students’ parents and local supporters. During their visit to Desa Pentek, they were warmly welcomed by Zakiah, the Chairperson of the Nurul Hikmah Converts Recitation Group.
Kepala MTsN 1 Mempawah, Tutik Rusmawati, emphasized the value of solidarity, stating, "We want to share blessings and show that they are not alone. May this serve as a good start to build togetherness and compassion among us. God willing, if given another opportunity, we will return with the same intent and purpose." This potent message resonated with participants, reflecting the importance of communal care.
Zakiah shared her appreciation for the visit and contributions, noting, "This is not only material assistance but also moral support for us. We are truly thankful for the attention and aid provided; we hope such kindness continues to grow and be felt by more people in need." The distribution included 109.5 kg of rice, 16 boxes of instant noodles, 17 liters of cooking oil, various beverages, milk, and sugar, benefiting 93 families throughout the district.
These heartwarming stories from Jepara, Solok, and Mempawah showcase the spirit of community and social responsibility in Indonesia. While government efforts play a crucial role, it is the involvement of local citizens and organizations that drives these initiatives forward, highlighting how collective action can tackle pressing social issues. As regions across the nation continue to face economic and social challenges, such collaborative efforts signal hope and a commitment to creating a more supportive society for all.
