The Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa (CASO) is calling on its own staff and those from community organizations to fast for one day on April 14, 2022, in recognition of the Islamic month of Ramadan.
At sunset, CASO will host a virtual gathering to break fast with its staff and all participating organizations, including Ottawa Paramedic Service and Aquia and Kweku Affordable Living Foundation.
CASO partnered with the Ottawa Muslim Community Services (OMCS) to provide all registered participants with Iftar packages to break fast, which will include dates, along with a full dinner.
OMCS will facilitate the gathering and will invite an Imam to introduce spiritual teachings of Ramadan before inviting attendees to share their fasting experience.
“The goal of this event is to increase cross-cultural awareness within the workplace and the community, by providing an opportunity for non-Muslim staff from organizations across the city to experience what their Muslim coworkers and clients they work with do for 30 consecutive days every year,” said Yvette Uwitonze, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Child Protection Worker, The Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa.
About 20 CASO staff members participated in CASO’s first annual “Fasting Challenge” in 2021. Participants said the experience helped them to grow their understanding and compassion for Muslim colleagues, service recipients and community members. This year, 16 local community organizations were invited to join CASO in this event.
To equip families with the appropriate cultural supports throughout the month, OMCS and CASO also provided a workshop to caregivers caring for Muslim children and youth, as well as care packages for children containing items and ideas for Ramadan and Eid-related activities. The two agencies also delivered food hampers with halal meat and other kitchen staples for Ramadan meals, such as rice, pasta sauce, cooking oil and dates.
About The Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa
The Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa (CASO) is a non-profit community organization that works to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children and youth.
CASO works closely with community partners, service providers, and children, youth and their families to strengthen the capacity of families and communities to meet the physical, emotional and social needs of those in CASO’s care.
CASO: Helping children and youth thrive to build resilient families and communities.
About Ottawa Muslim Community Services
Ottawa Muslim Community Services (OMCS) is a charitable organization that works to build a stronger, healthier community and increase accessibility through mobile social services, collaboration, training and education. OMCS works closely with its partners to foster a community where everyone is able to access the appropriate services and supports that meet their needs.
OMCS: Inspired by Faith. Guided by Values.
CONTACT
The Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa: [email protected]
Ottawa Muslim Community Services: [email protected]
