Hunger-fighting Campaign Launches Across Canada
National grassroots efforts tap into spirit of Ramadan
Food banks across Canada are gearing up to take part in a national grassroots initiative combating hunger which launches its third annual campaign this week.
Give 30 was founded in 2012 to focus on hunger in Canada and motivate people of all backgrounds to give to food banks during the month of Ramadan through give30.ca.
In its first year, Give 30 raised almost $40,000. Last year, food banks in three provinces joined and received more than $90,000 in donations to fight hunger. This year, Give 30 grows again, with nine food bank partners across five provinces.
Give 30 is designed to motivate people fasting in Ramadan to donate a portion of the money they save by skipping meals over the month. People who aren’t fasting can also take part, says Give 30 founder Ziyaad Mia, noting that donations have come from people of all faiths and backgrounds. “Brown bag your lunch for the month or tally up 30 days of coffee money. Whatever it is, it can make a difference in the lives of those who don’t have enough to eat.”
“This is a grassroots movement that’s catching on much faster than ever imagined,” says Mia. The Toronto lawyer and social activist attributes the significant growth of the campaign to the simplicity of the idea and the power of social media.
“We are very pleased to be joining the Give 30 campaign this year,” says Samantha Ingram, Communications Coordinator for the Ottawa Food Bank. “While the campaign centers around Ramadan, Give 30 really encourages everyone, regardless of faith, to participate and join in on the fight against community hunger.”
How can I participate in Give30?
Donate to the Give 30 Ottawa Food Bank online by clicking here.
If you observe Ramadan, donate the money you saved during the month while fasting. If you don’t, brown bag your lunch, or give up buying a coffee for a month. Then donate the money you’ve saved to help someone in need!
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is a period of prayer, fasting, charity-giving and self-accountability for Muslims. This year, Ramadan takes place from June 28 to July 27.