Ramadan 2023: Resources

March 22, 2023

Ramadan Mubarak – Happy Ramadan!

Today marks the start of Ramadan, a month-long holy celebration for the Muslim community. The Children’s Aid Society of Ottawa (CASO) has once again partnered with the Ottawa Muslim Community Services (OMCS) to equip families with cultural supports throughout the month. OMCS and CASO 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. As Eid approaches, CASO will be organizing gifts for Muslim children, youth, and families using donations from the Holiday Gift Program.

Additionally, we have created a list of resources to share with families, as well as a video series that covers the following topics over the next few weeks: the three stages of Ramadan (Mercy, Forgiveness, and Safety), and the rituals and celebrations of Eid al Fitr.

CASO’s 3^rd Annual Fasting Challenge and Iftar

CASO’s non-Muslim staff members will be standing in solidarity with their Muslim colleagues during our annual 1-Day Fasting Challenge and In-Person Iftar event. Our agency will be fasting on March 30, 2023, in recognition of the Islamic month of Ramadan. About 40 CASO staff members participated in the Fasting Challenge in 2022. Participants said the experience helped grow their understanding and compassion for Muslim colleagues, service recipients, and community members.

OMCS will facilitate the gathering and will invite an Imam to introduce spiritual teachings of Ramadan before inviting attendees to share their fasting experience. OMCS will also be hosting an Iftar event for children and youth in care, as an opportunity to celebrate community, connection and culture.

Ramadan Mubarak to all!