Kingston marks 13 years of Give 30 as hunger crisis deepens during Ramadan

Grassroots campaign urges community to unite in fight against food insecurity.

Food banks across Canada are joining forces for the annual Give 30 campaign, a grassroots effort that fights hunger during Ramadan.

Give 30 was founded in 2012 by Michael Taylor to raise awareness about hunger in local communities and inspire people of all backgrounds to support food banks during the holy month. The initiative now supports 13 major food banks and anti-poverty groups nationwide. Co-Chair Mona Rahman, explains that this idea came to Taylor after he realized how much money he saves on food during Ramadan.

The Halal Times says that Ramadan is considered the holiest month in the Islamic lunar calendar. During this time, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset and focus on prayer, charity, self-discipline and spiritual growth. 

In Kingston, volunteers are marking the 13th year of support for Partners in Mission Food Bank. The local campaign raised a record $37,000 in 2025.

Mona Rahman of Give 30 Team Kingston says hunger is a universal issue and notes Kingston city council declared food insecurity an emergency last year. She urges residents to start by helping neighbours in need.

Dan Irwin, executive director of Partners in Mission Food Bank, says one in 17 people received a food hamper in 2025 — a record high. He says the agency receives no government funding and relies on community support.

Taylor says Ramadan is rooted in giving, building community and understanding the challenges others face. He says that spirit continues to drive the campaign, uniting people of all faiths to fight hunger and poverty.

Ramadan runs from Feb. 18 to March 19. The Give 30 campaign launches Feb. 11 and continues until April 30.

Story by Alyssa Brush