Mohamad Fakih and Ali Asaria launch the Sadaqa Project
Initiative to provide 10,000 meals to people in need during Ramadan
TORONTO, ON (April14, 2021)—Food security for the most vulnerable populations has been an ongoing issue in the GTA during the pandemic. Today, Mohamad Fakih, founder and CEO of Paramount Fine Foods, and Ali Asaria, CEO of the Tulip Foundation announced their Sadaqa Project today, a new partnership intended to address food insecurity among the most in need populations.
Sadaqa is an Arabic word meaning benevolence or charity. More than that, its meaning is filled with additional considerations and sentiment of goodwill, kindness and generosity to others.
“We are committed to feeding thousands of people in need from all backgrounds during Ramadan, a traditional time in the Muslim calendar for giving. We know there is a tremendous need out there in these difficult times, and we want to help people by providing them with a delicious hot meal,” said Mohamad Fakih.
“Food security is one of the top priorities of the Tulip Foundation,” said Asaria. “We should not accept that in a prosperous country Iike Canada, so many do not have the means to provide good nutritious food for themselves and their families. This is a tragic reality, particularly given the hardships of the pandemic year, and we are determined to do our part to help. We hope others will join us and help too.”
Ramadan is a time for Muslims to give back, build bridges and make a difference. The intent of the Sadaqa Project is to bring together good people across all faiths so that we can do good things together.
“Food insecurity is growing at an alarming and unprecedented rate in Toronto. The Sadaqa Project is timely and will help so many who are in need of food at this critical moment,” stated Rafi Aaron, Spokesperson for the Interfaith Coalition to Fight Homelessness.
Fakih and Asaria have committed to donating the first 2000 meals that the Sadaqa project will provide. And IDRF (International Development and Relief Foundation) have joined as a founding partner. “This pandemic has spotlighted the inequalities that exist across this country, and one of the significant challenges is the need for food security nationally. Families living below the poverty line should not have to think about their next meal”, said IDRF CEO Mahmood Qasim.
The meals are prepared in collaboration with chef Chris Klugman of Paintbox Bistro. “Providing the best quality of affordable and nutritious food has always been my mandate. Every individual deserves a delicious meal and we will provide that through this initiative”, said Klugman.
Donations eligible for a charitable Receipt can be made at www.idrf.ca/sadaqaproject
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Stephen Murdoch
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M- 289-241-3997
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About IDRF
IDRF is a Canadian registered charitable organization dedicated to empowering disadvantaged people in Canada and around the world. Founded in 1984, IDRF has an enviable reputation as one of Canada’s best-run charities and has been recognized by third-party organizations such as the Financial Post and MoneySense for its effectiveness, efficiency, and results. Find out more about IDRF’s work in its Annual Report, and follow them on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Media contact:
Zeina Osman, Director of Major Gifts and External Relations, IDRF
Tel: 416-497-0818 (# 504) or Cell: 613 304-2568
