The national domestic relief's Ramadan Food Box distribution program seeks to address food insecurity and provide spiritually fulfilling foods during the month of fasting.

(New Hyde Park, NY, 03/17/2022) - On Saturday, March 18th, ICNA Relief will begin its Ramadan Food Box distribution across its network of 50+ food pantries in 24 states, reaching over 24,000 clients. Ramadan, the month of fasting observed by Muslims worldwide, starts on Wednesday, March 22nd.

With the cost of groceries skyrocketing nationwide, many families are facing moderate to severe rates of food insecurity, especially with the recent expiration of pandemic-era Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

Access to nutritious food is a basic human right, and yet more and more families nationwide are struggling to put food on the table. For individuals who observe halal face, there is the added challenge of finding culturally important foods that meet their faith-based dietary guidelines.

Research shows that there is a lack of access to halal options at food pantries, even in cities with a significant Muslim population, such as New York City, Chicago, Detroit, Dallas, Houston, and Los Angeles.

ICNA Relief is committed to addressing this gap and meeting the ongoing needs of members of the Muslim community and beyond by raising awareness for food insecurity and its implications.

The Food Box distribution will serve low-income, refugee, and other families in need during the upcoming month of fasting, which begins March 22. The food boxes will include staple pantry items such as rice, flour, oil, and specialty foods traditionally consumed during Ramadan. The distribution is made possible through food and monetary donations from the communities we work in nationwide.

"Ramadan is a special time of year for Muslims, and encourages increased self-awareness, righteousness, and empathy so we can be more responsive to the needs of our neighbors" says Zahid Hussain, Director of Hunger Prevention. "Currently, many families are struggling to put food on the table due to record high inflation, and we want to ensure that they have access to the culturally appropriate and spiritually fulfilling foods that they need to open their fasts. None of this is possible without our partners, volunteers, and donors, and we are very grateful to have them by our side."

About ICNA Relief

ICNA Relief is a national domestic relief and faith-based organization that is part of the Islamic Circle of North America. With thousands of trained volunteers nationwide ready to help in times of need, ICNA Relief's mission is to serve the community at large through social service programs such as disaster relief and transitional housing for women and children. For more information about ICNA Relief's efforts, visit www.icnarelief.org. ICNA Relief USA is headquartered at 1529 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park, NY 11040.

For questions or interview requests, please contact Zahid Hussain, Director of Hunger Prevention: 214-298-5857 and zhussain@icnarelief.org

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