“Food costs deprive us of spiritual nourishment
Manhattan: As food prices continue to surge, many are wondering how they will afford the culturally relevant food items they need to celebrate the sacred holidays of Ramadan and Passover.
Though everyone deserves access to foods that honor their identities, the truth is that these items can be prohibitively expensive for those who need them most, which is why Food Bank for New York City is proud to partner with groups like Islamic Relief USA to make it easier for people to access these invaluable resources.
n fact, halal and kosher resources are regularly 10-20% more expensive than other food items. This poses a serious problem throughout the year, but especially in this moment. During Ramadan and Passover, food plays a crucial role in how individuals connect with their spirituality and their loved ones. If someone is unable to secure halal meat or dried fruits like dates for an iftar meal or the bitter herbs, matzo and parsley needed for Passover seders, they can’t observe these moments with the traditions they’re looking to uphold. It’s vital that hunger-relief organizations and our elected leaders provide the produce, proteins and other food items needed to celebrate holidays and special observances, particularly now as inflation and supply chain challenges are making these items even more difficult for people to come by. These food items not only nourish the body but the mind and soul.
In a city as diverse and vibrant as ours, we must work together to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to the foods that affirm who they are and where they come from. Leslie Gordon, president and CEO, FBFNYC, and Sharif Aly, CEO, Islamic Relief USA
