Muslims in Brooklyn shelters have limited Halal options as food insecurity rises

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- Many Brooklyn residents, especially those recently entering shelters, are struggling to access food due to a lack of kitchens and difficulty acquiring canned goods.

This challenge is further amplified for Muslim residents who adhere to a halal diet.

PIX11's Cory McGinnis reports on how Brooklyn food pantries are facing a surge in demand, and the specific difficulties Muslims face in finding halal options.

While the Arab American Family Support Center (AAFSC) has addressed the need for halal food for years, they are now seeking additional funding to expand their offerings within Brooklyn's food pantries. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated food insecurity, particularly among Muslim communities in Brooklyn and Queens.

This is further compounded by the rise in migrants and asylum seekers, many from Muslim-majority countries.

Muslims requiring food assistance often face challenges in finding and affording halal options. Food pantries, aiming to meet this growing need, also encounter logistical hurdles in acquiring and distributing halal food.

In response to this critical issue, the AAFSC is actively seeking funding to bolster the availability of halal food in Brooklyn's food pantries. They recently organized a halal food distribution event in Queens to support the community during Ramadan.

"With increased funding," says Adriana Curto, Development and Communications Manager with the AAFSC, "we could do so much more. We've given so much but we really are strained. With increased funding by the city, funders, and our supporters in New York City, we can really step in to meet that need and provide greater services to people who need it."

The next halal food distribution will be held on Friday, March 22nd at Kensington Plaza in Brooklyn. To learn more about the Arab American Family Support Center and how to donate, visit their website.