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As Food Costs Rise, The Mississauga Food Bank Launches Give 30 Ramadan Fundraiser

By Jenna Cura
April 1, 2022
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In the last 6 months, more than 71,000 visits were made to a local food bank by more than 16,000 neighbours in need across Mississauga.

This Ramadan, The Mississauga Food Bank is once again partnering with Give 30 to raise funds and food for hungry children, seniors, families, and other neighbours across the city. Give 30 is a grassroots initiative that was founded in 2012 and encourages everyone, regardless of faith, to show empathy for those who face food insecurity and give in the spirit of Ramadan. With the support of a generous donor, the first $30,000 donated to The Mississauga Food Bank’s Give 30 campaign will be matched dollar for dollar to feed twice as many hungry neighbours. 

“With the cost of food expected to increase an additional 5 to 7% this year, and the price of gas on the rise, the ability to put food on the table while having enough to cover other basic necessities is becoming further out of reach for our vulnerable neighbours,” says Meghan Nicholls. “During the month of Ramadan, we ask our community to use this time of reflection to think of their neighbours in need. Your generosity and compassion ensure we can continue to feed hungry neighbours this Ramadan and beyond.”

The idea behind the Give 30 campaign is to encourage everyone, regardless of faith, to show empathy for those who experience hunger on a regular basis by donating to local food banks. For those who fast during the month of Ramadan, they are encouraged to donate the money that is saved by abstaining from food or drink during daylight hours. Give 30 also encourages those who do not partake in Ramadan to donate as well. Instead of fasting, it could be money saved by eating lunch or making coffee at home rather than dining out. 

“Let’s use the spirit of Ramadan, regardless of faith or background, to unite in common humanity,” says Ziyaad Mia, founder of Give 30. “This time allows us to reflect, take stock of our blessings, and turn our minds and hearts to those who may not have enough, especially during these days of uncertainty, fear, and anxiety,”

The food and funds raised this Ramadan will continue to provide hungry children, families, seniors and others in need with access to healthy and appropriate food across Mississauga. Community members can get involved by hosting a fundraiser, food drive or collecting donations at an iftar, or by making a financial donation that enables The Mississauga Food Bank to purchase food in bulk and at a quarter of the cost.

For more information or to get involved, please visit: www.themississaugafoodbank.org/give30. The Ramadan fundraiser in support of Give 30 will run until May 2, 2022.

Crescent moon made out of dates on a white plate with The Mississauga Food Bank logo beside it on a purple and yellow background with eggs, avocado, bananas, pasta, and canned goods shown. Dates on a pink plate with a candle inside a glass lantern and a glass of water beside it on a white rug. A food bank user sits with hands clasped on a black chair.

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