Muslims Begin Ramadan with Fasting and Feeding the Needy

Nonprofit ICNA Relief USA distributes thousands of food boxes to support families during holy month

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Muslims across the suburbs and globally began the Islamic holy month of Ramadan on Wednesday with daily fasting from dawn to sunset, while also increasing giving charity, worship and reflection. The nonprofit ICNA Relief USA handed out thousands of boxes of nutritious meals as part of its annual Ramadan Food Box Distribution to support families experiencing food insecurity.

Why it matters

Ramadan is a sacred time for Muslims, marked by fasting, spiritual reflection, and increased charitable giving. For families facing financial hardships, meeting the dietary needs of Ramadan can be challenging, making organizations like ICNA Relief USA critical in providing food assistance during this period.

The details

ICNA Relief USA expects to distribute about 35,000 food boxes this year to support families in need. On Wednesday, the organization distributed 400 food boxes in Chicago and 200 in Glendale Heights, Illinois. The nonprofit has been serving the community for more than 20 years, with its pantry open three days a week to provide food to anyone who is hungry.

  • Muslims began the Islamic holy month of Ramadan on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

ICNA Relief USA

A nonprofit organization that has been distributing food and serving the community for more than 20 years.

Asma Jarad

The resource center manager for ICNA Relief USA.

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What they’re saying

“Yesterday, we distributed 400 food boxes in Chicago at our Devon pantry. Today, we're distributing 200 (in Glendale Heights). The need is a little bit less here, but it's still a great need especially with SNAP cuts. With federal funding cuts, a lot of people are really relying on these food staples.”

— Asma Jarad, Resource Center Manager (dailyherald.com)

“Obviously, it's not going to feed them for the whole month, but at least it's something to help them to start Ramadan as we begin our fasting today. Our pantry is also open three days a week.”

— Asma Jarad, Resource Center Manager (dailyherald.com)

The takeaway

This story highlights the important role that community organizations like ICNA Relief USA play in supporting families in need during the sacred month of Ramadan, providing essential food assistance and demonstrating the spirit of charity and compassion that is central to the holiday.