Islamic Relief Launches Large-Scale Food Aid Campaign to Support Families in Kentucky

Islamic Relief Launches Large-Scale Food Aid Campaign to Support Families in Kentucky
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Islamic Relief USA, in partnership with the SHARE Center, has launched a large-scale food assistance campaign to support vulnerable residents in Lexington, Kentucky, as part of efforts to strengthen food security and promote community solidarity.

The initiative brought together dozens of Muslim and non-Muslim volunteers who prepared and packaged thousands of meals at the gymnasium of Lexington Academy. The meals included rice, beans, and carrot flakes and are intended for distribution to people in need across central Kentucky. Organizers said the campaign aims not only to provide food but also to serve the wider community and highlight humanitarian values through charitable action.

Zaid Shabandri, Development Coordinator at Islamic Relief, said the meals would be distributed to families facing food insecurity in the region, stressing that the initiative reflects principles of cooperation and social responsibility. Arsh Ansari, Nutrition Director at the SHARE Center, said the campaign aims to prepare between 20,000 and 30,000 meals, which will be distributed through the SHARE Center, local food banks, and other charitable organizations.

Around 100 volunteers, including students and local residents, took part in the effort, reflecting strong community engagement. British student Sarah Ghanem said such initiatives help strengthen social bonds and foster mutual support.

The campaign comes as Kentucky faces significant food insecurity challenges, with nearly 700,000 people experiencing unstable access to food, according to Feeding Kentucky.