NCCM Endorses National Ramadan Campaign to Fight Hunger

For Immediate Release –

(Ottawa, June 16, 2014) – The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), a prominent Muslim civil liberties organization, is pleased to endorse a national, grassroots campaign aimed at fighting hunger by raising money for food banks during the holy month of Ramadan.

Give 30, now in its third year, encourages Canadians of all faiths and backgrounds to share in the giving spirit of the month which begins at the end of June. Canadians donated over $130,000 in previous years.

In 2014, nine food banks in five provinces are part of the innovative campaign.  It was founded by Toronto lawyer and social activist Ziyaad Mia, and is supported by volunteers across the country.

“This initiative is a wonderful example of the power of civic engagement,” says Ihsaan Gardee, executive director at NCCM. “It vividly illustrates how Canadian Muslims continue to positively impact their communities through the sharing of their values and traditions.”

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 Mia, noting that donations have come from a wide diversity of people. “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.”

Ramadan is about giving, building community, appreciating the importance of food, and understanding the challenges of hunger, says Mia.  That is why it works well motivating people to give.  “Everyone can participate in the spirit of Ramadan,” Mia emphasizes.  “Hunger knows no race, religion, ethnicity or creed and that’s why it’s important for everyone to join Give 30.”

About Give 30:

Give 30 runs in Toronto, Edmonton, Calgary, Quebec, Mississauga, Ottawa, Vancouver and Winnipeg.

Ramadan takes place from June 28 – July 27, 2014.  The campaign runs until September 5, 2014.

W: GIVE30.ca ~ FB: /GIVE30 ~ Twitter: @GIVE_30

Contact:

Ihsaan Gardee, Executive Director 613-254-9704 or 613-853-4111

Ziyaad Mia, Founder Give 30 – 416-303-9535 (cell – call or text)

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