Food Basics Is Joining Communities Across Ontario to ‘Celebrate! Share! Enjoy!’ This Ramadan

Image credit: Food Basics

More Ontarians are celebrating Ramadan now than ever, though it is not officially recognised as a public holiday in Canada. Food Basics understands the key role that sharing a meal can play in building community and making the holiday feel less isolating. That’s why this Ramadan, Food Basics is partnering with three Muslim-based organisations including, International Development and Relief Foundation (IDRF), Muslim Society of Waterloo & Wellington Counties (Waterloo Masjid) and Muslim Neighbour Nexus(MNN), to bring Ontarians together to Celebrate! Share! Enjoy! the holy month through food and shared experiences.

During Ramadan – a month of sharing and togetherness – some Ontarians do not have access to the spaces to celebrate or the time and resources to participate in community events, making it difficult to focus on the spirit of the season. In response, Food Basics is partnering with IDRF to support their Feeding the Community program which works with food banks across the province to provide meals throughout Ramadan, and beyond.

Food Basics and IDRF are also connecting with two Ontario-based mosques; Waterloo Masjid and Muslim Neighbour Nexus, to ensure these communities have access to fresh and nutritious ingredients for their iftar meals. "Mosques play a crucial role in fostering community and support during Ramadan. Food Basics’ partnership with IDRF allows us to strengthen that support by ensuring more families have access to meals and a welcoming space to break their fast,” said Nabil Ali, COO at IDRF. Through these partnerships, Food Basics will support over 700 Ontarians celebrating Ramadan.

Hundreds of Ontarians gather at Waterloo Masjid and Muslim Neighbour Nexus each day to break their fasts and share in an iftar meal. "Food is a universal language that connects people across cultures, and Ramadan is a time when meals bring families and communities together. Through this partnership, Food Basics and IDRF are not just providing meals—we’re creating opportunities for people to experience the rich diversity of traditions that make our communities stronger,” said Nabil Ali.

Understanding that Ramadan is a season for sharing, Food Basics and IDRF are excited to be working together to strengthen the bonds within Ontario communities and ensure everyone has access to quality food during this blessed month. "Ramadan is a time of reflection, generosity, and community” added Nabil Ali. “We’re grateful for Food Basics’ support in ensuring that families across Ontario have access to nutritious meals. Together, we’re making a meaningful difference where it’s needed most."

“We understand the deep significance Ramadan has for the Muslim community,” said Mo Hamoud, district manager at Food Basics. “In partnering with Muslim-based organisations who are making a difference across Ontario, our aim is to uplift the work that they do so more Ontarians can celebrate and share in the spirit of the holy month.” Food Basics invites you to come together to share in the spirit of community this Ramadan. Ramadan Mubarak!