London, Ont., high school organizing Ramadan toy drive for Muslim community's Eid celebrations
Toys can be dropped off to Beachcomber London on Wharncliffe Road until April 26
The annual Saunders Secondary School Toys for Tots donation drive is focusing on Ramadan and bringing smiles to the faces of children in London's Muslim community.
"Ramadan and Eid are a time of giving to those who are less fortunate," said Grade 12 student Bayan Saidam. "When we fast, it allows us to be thankful of our blessings, so this really ties into the idea of giving back to the community."
The school's Muslim Students Association has teamed up with local business Beachcomber London, where residents can drop off or deliver toy donations. Students plan to collect more than 300 toys for children aged 3-16 and donate them to the London Muslim Mosque by April 26.
Toys will be collected throughout Ramadan, and the mosque will distribute them just in time for Eid, which marks the end of the Islamic holy month which started in early April this year.
There are approximately 33,000 to 35,000 Muslims living in London, many of whom fast from sunrise to sunset for about 30 days.
Jamie Clark is a teacher at Saunders. He said he came up with the idea last year as a way of bringing unity and positivity to London's growing multicultural community.
"We have a big Muslim population in our school and they're awesome kids. Every community certainly has people in need and the Muslim community is no exception so we're doing what we can to help out our fellow person," he said.
"Right now our students are fasting and they're not eating between sunrise and sundown. Lots of people don't know that and it's tricky for some kids, but something important for others to know as well."
A message of peace and enlightenment
Saidam believes this initiative is the perfect way to create an inclusive community and give people a chance to celebrate after a long two years of the COVID pandemic halted most celebrations.
"The toy drive is open for everyone to donate and it brings the whole community together, regardless of whether they're Muslim or not. It really brings a sense of putting a smile on a child and their family's faces," she said.
"Traditionally we think of giving children money and they usually go to a toy store with that, but those who are less fortunate don't have that opportunity so it would be really nice to surprise them with a toy," she added.
Clark hopes this toy drive can also help Londoners learn about the Islamic faith and different traditions and practices that are followed during Ramadan and Eid.
"Ramadan is all about positivity. The Muslim faith is very peaceful and positive so hopefully it'll enlighten people a little bit. People don't know that gifts are given out during Eid so it's nice that we can educate them as well. It's a win-win for everyone," he said.