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The Mississauga Food Bank Launches Give 30 Ramadan Fundraiser As Food Bank Usage Rises

By Jenna Cura
March 22, 2023
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Providing Food For 44% More Food Bank Clients In February Compared To The Previous Year

As Ramadan begins this evening, The Mississauga Food Bank is gearing up for its annual fundraising campaign in partnership with Give 30 to raise much-needed funds to provide healthy and appropriate food for neighbours in need 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. The first $10,000 donated will be matched, dollar for dollar, by a generous, anonymous donor to provide healthy food for twice as many meals.

“This Ramadan, we are continuing to face an urgent need, with food bank usage continuing to rise at an alarming rate. Since January 2022, The Mississauga Food Bank has seen, on average, 18% more food bank users every month compared to the same times last year. And we saw 44% more clients this past February than last year,” says Meghan Nicholls, CEO. “As you take a moment to reflect this Ramadan, we ask you to please think of your most vulnerable neighbours. You can help ensure we meet the growing need this Ramadan and beyond through your generosity and compassion.” 

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. Those who fast during Ramadan are encouraged to donate the money saved by abstaining from food or drink during daylight hours. Give 30 also encourages those who do not partake in Ramadan to donate. Instead of fasting, it could be money saved by bringing a homemade lunch to work or making coffee at home rather than dining out. 

“Give 30 uses social solidarity and grassroots action to mobilize people of all backgrounds to make a direct difference in the fight against hunger and poverty in the communities where they live,” says Ziyaad Mia, founder of Give 30. “We ask everyone, regardless of who they are, to participate in whatever way they can.”

Community members are encouraged to get involved by making a monetary donation, creating a personalized fundraising page, or collecting donations at an iftar. Additionally, you can find our team of volunteers at your local grocery store on April 8, 15, and 22 to donate in person. Your monetary donations enable The Mississauga Food Bank to purchase fresh and frozen food in bulk direct from manufacturers to provide even more nutritious food for neighbours in need.

For more information or to get involved, please visit our Give 30 page.

You can join the Give 30 movement in support of the Spring Drive until April 20, 2023.

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