Mohammed Aly developed an interest in helping less fortunate people a decade ago, when he volunteered at a women’s shelter in Santa Ana. After becoming an attorney, Mohammed founded the Orange County Poverty Alleviation Coalition (OCPAC), a nonprofit in Orange that assists and advocates for the homeless.
OCPAC has distributed thousands of meals to the homeless and less fortunate community since 2017. It also campaigns for the decriminalization of homelessness and advocates for public reforms to address the issue.
For his efforts, CAIR-LA and the Boukai Family Foundation are recognizing Mohammed with the Everyday Heroes award, saluting the work and deeds of Southern Californians during these challenging times. Thanks to the Boukai Family Foundation, recipients receive $500.
With the coronavirus pandemic impacting the world, it significantly threatens vulnerable communities. OCPAC is doing its best to keep the less fortunate out of harm’s way.
“We have urged the county of Orange to relocate individuals from encampments and overcrowded homeless shelters to motel rooms,” Mohammed said. “The unsheltered literally cannot shelter in place, and the safety of the community depends upon how we treat those in need.”
Mohammed knows of what he speaks.
“As an attorney and advocate, I try to be the person that I needed when I was younger and growing up in poverty,” he said.
OCPAC accepts tax-deductible donations through its Facebook page. Or for more information, call 714.414.3736.
Each week, CAIR-LA and the Boukai Family Foundation are recognizing the contributions of everyday people in Southern California making heroic efforts during coronavirus pandemic. To nominate someone for recognition, visit bit.ly/socaleverydayheroes