Culturally Appropriate Food Support
About Halal Food Bank Canada
Halal Food Bank Canada is a registered charity helping individuals and families facing food insecurity access halal and culturally appropriate food with dignity. Based in London, Ontario and now also serving Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge, the organization serves people regardless of faith or background and works with volunteers, donors, businesses and community partners to respond to growing local need.
Our Journey
2021
A Local Initiative Begins
A small-scale food bank initiative began operating at the organization’s previous location under the umbrella of the Caring Canadians Society. The experience revealed a growing and often unmet need for halal food within the community.
2024
A Dedicated Organization Is Created
Halal Food Bank Canada was established as a separate organization so it could focus directly on culturally appropriate food assistance and expand its services, outreach and community impact.
October 2024
Not-for-Profit Status
Halal Food Bank Canada received its not-for-profit status and began operating as a dedicated food bank.
January 21, 2025
Charitable Status
Halal Food Bank Canada received registered charitable status with registration number 705158954RR0001. Donors can now receive tax receipts for their donations.
Today
The organization continues to respond to increasing need through monthly food assistance, clothing and essentials, community programs, volunteer involvement and partnerships.
In October 2026, Halal Food Bank expanded its services to the Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge region. We will be supporting registered families with food assistance, clothing and essentials.
Leadership and Governance
Halal Food Bank Canada is guided by a Board that helps shape direction, build donor relationships and create pathways for stronger reach and collaboration. The operational team manages day-to-day activities so food bank functions can run smoothly and effectively.
Founder, CEO and Director
Amna Saleem
Co-Founder and Director
Dr. Munir El-Kassem
Director
Dr. Bushra Farooq
Officers
Secretary
Iffat Farooqui
Treasurer
Muhammad Saleem Khan
Advisory Board
Dr. Hassan Mostafa
Dr. Zahid Sardar
Dr. Amna Masood
Dr. Mohamed Mithoowani
Corrine Rahman
Operational Team
The operational team supports client intake, food bank management and logistics required for day-to-day service delivery.
Client Intake Manager
Saba Farheen
Staff and Administration Manager
Hiba Al-Mohamed
Logistics & Facility Support Officer
Waqas Chouhan
Built Through Shared Responsibility
Halal Food Bank Canada’s work depends on people and organizations contributing food, essential items, funding, time, expertise and community connections. This shared effort helps the organization respond to food insecurity while preserving dignity and cultural respect.
About Halal Food Bank Canada Questions
Is Halal Food Bank Canada a registered charity?
Yes. Halal Food Bank Canada received registered charitable status on January 21, 2025. Its Canadian charitable registration number is 705158954RR0001.
Who can receive support?
Services are open to people facing food insecurity regardless of faith or background. Each person’s needs and circumstances are reviewed through an individual assessment.
Why does the organization focus on halal food?
The organization was created in response to a growing need for food assistance that respects halal dietary requirements and the cultural needs of the people receiving support.
How many people does Halal Food Bank Canada serve?
As of October 2026, Halal Food Bank has been serving more than 750 families, representing approximately 1,800 individuals, each month.
How is the organization supported?
Programs are supported through volunteers, public donations, businesses, grocery stores and community partnerships as well as in kind donations received in donation bins at mosques and grocery stores. Available services depend on donated resources, funding and volunteer capacity.
Where can I find information about programs or food assistance?
Visit the Our Programs page for an overview of services or the Get Food page for client access information, hours and location details.
Help Strengthen Dignified Food Support
Your donation, time or partnership can help Halal Food Bank Canada continue responding to food insecurity with culturally appropriate food and community-based support.