Morden's Many Hands Resource Centre (MHRC) was able to hire a community inclusion assistant to help better serve the growing number of Muslim clients in the community, courtesy of Food Banks Canada.
"The idea came from what we were seeing on the ground," remarked Executive Director Mariyam Tsygankova.
Some food in the hampers given out to Muslim families wasn't being eaten, and some was returned because it wasn't Halal. This was a way for the food bank to address this growing need in the community.
"Food brings people together, and we really want everyone who walks through our doors to feel like they belong, like they are part of the community. It's really important. It isn't just about the dietary needs, it's about dignity, inclusion. It's about building in space where everybody can feel at home."
Since announcing the new position in partnership with Pembina Valley Islamic Society (PVIS), Tsygankova said she has been receiving emails of support.
This one is from a grateful Muslim client.
"Thank you so much for trying to help include everyone in the community. It really means a lot to see Halal food now at the Food Bank. As a Muslim, I used to worry about whether I could eat the food I got. Now I feel safe and respected. It's a big relief for my family. Thank you for thinking of us and making us feel welcome."
This one came from a community member.
"I can see a very positive impact of your thoughtful approach towards building an inclusive community. The mindset of people is changing. This was the first time ever the organization where I work is asking for food preferences from their employees who prefer Halal foods for companies, occasional pizza or burger lunch. Well done, congratulations."
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Mohsin Awan is the summer community inclusion assistant. He was born in Pakistan and immigrated to Canada from Saudi Arabia almost 3 years ago. He is a small business owner in Morden. He was selected by PVIS to fill this role. Awan speaks five languages, Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, Arabic, and English, which makes him a strong advocate to help newcomers overcome language barriers when trying to access food and information about MHRC.
He is looking forward to helping MHRC staff learn about meats like chicken, beef, and lamb and to building relationships with Muslim clients who are coming to the food bank.
He encourages Muslim community members to also take part in other programs.
"They have a monthly community meal, which everybody comes and joins. We have another Halal option. We encourage our Muslim people and our neighbours, our friends, family, and whoever, as we have halal meats in our option, to come. It not only matters about the food, but it matters to be together, to get to know each other in the community."
He hopes as people connect in this way, when needs arise, they will be able to help each other.
Awan is happy to work with the friendly staff at MHRC and hopes people come and find the safe, confidential support they need.
"We always stand with you. We are always beside you. Many Hands is here. Food Bank is here. Community is here. So, don't be shy. Don't feel anything. Just come and join and say hi."
Tsygankova is grateful for Awan and said MHRC is lucky to have him to help the Muslim community feel more at home.