Muslim Association of Canada (MAC) Edmonton and Capital Region Housing Launch Ramadan Care Package Campaign

In an effort to support those who are the most financially vulnerable, the Muslim Association of Canada (MAC) has partnered with Capital Region Housing to provide care packages during the month of Ramadan to any tenant who is in need. Any Capital Region Housing tenant can sign up for a care package regardless of faith or background.

Ramadan is a time when family, friends and community come together in celebration, worship and giving. “This year, we celebrate while we are physically distancing, but our hearts are united in the spirit of coming together and supporting one another,” says Bassam Fares, Director of The MAC Centre.

“In this time of need, our partnership with the Muslim Association of Canada (MAC) will help provide food to any tenant who signs up for the program. We are always invested in the success of our tenants and we empathize with those who are struggling right now to feed their families,” says Greg Dewling, CEO, Capital Region Housing. “We applaud MAC’s desire to partner with us in this initiative in our 50th anniversary year.”

MAC Edmonton is joining 8 other MAC cities on a youth-led initiative that is partnering with over 16 organizations nation-wide initiative to provide care packages to those in need. Capital Region Housing tenants can sign up online for a care package which includes: non-perishable items such as rice, pasta, canned goods and oatmeal but also fresh food such as; potatoes, onions and juice. In keeping with the celebratory spirit of Ramadan, care packages will also include treats like chocolate and cookies.

As all of its centres and community spaces are closed, MAC is providing various forms of online and digital programming. Typically, community members come together to break their fast with free meals at the mosque and spend evenings in prayer as well as socializing at mosques too.

“We miss each other, we miss each other’s company – especially in Ramadan! It is the most social and spiritual time of the year,” says Fares.

Facts about Ramadan and the care package campaign:

• Ramadan begins sunset on the 23rd of April and Muslim community centres are pivoting to virtual programs and digital campaign to build a greater sense of community.
• The Muslim Association of Canada (MAC) partnered with Capital Region Housing as they celebrate 50 years, to raise funds and provide free food care packages for tenants who sign up.
• Sponsoring a care package costs $35 and can be done online at www.macnet.ca/foodshare.
• Capital Region Housing (CRH) tenants can receive a care package by signing up online here
• Care packages will be assembled by volunteers and delivered on the third week of May. A CRH family can be made available for an interview during that time.