Operations
Afghan-born founders of Iniburger donating sales to aid Afghanistan crisis
August 24, 2021
IniBurger, a San Francisco Bay area concept founded last year, is donating August and September proceeds to the International Rescue Committee of Northern California in light of the ongoing humanitarian crises in Afghanistan, according to a company press release. The Afghan-born founders, Abdul and Leeza Popal, are helping Afghan Soft Landing Fund, which covers emergency temporary housing costs, rental, and utility assistance for refugee families.
"Abdul and I are horrified to see what is currently happening in Afghanistan, especially because our home country has been experiencing disaster for decades," Leeza Popal said in a company press release. "As a company that was founded on a mission to support our communities, we are honored to support the International Rescue Committee, especially during this crucial time, and to contribute to the great work they are doing for Afghans both overseas and in the States. We hope that we can lead by example and inspire others in the Bay Area community to step up and support in any way they can."
Since opening in July 2020, the 100% halal fast casual concept has dedicated a percentage of each month's sales to local causes, which include organizations that fight the hunger and homelessness epidemics. To date, it has donated over $10,000 to local charities.
The IRC has been on the ground since 1988 in Afghanistan providing aid both during and after Taliban rule with thousands of offices across the nation where 99% of the staff are Afghanistan citizens. Their work in Afghanistan includes:
- Providing displaced families with basic necessities such as tents, clean water, and sanitation.
- Supporting over 100 health facilities by installing hand-washing stations and providing information and training in response to COVID-19.
- Providing safe learning spaces in rural areas.
- Helping Afghan citizens find employment
In the U.S., the IRC resettles Afghan refugees by providing housing, employment, health care, education and other comprehensive services, according to the release.
