MISSISSAUGA – A generous donation from the Islamic center to West End food ban in Mississauga has been widely praised by the city mayor and councilor, who urged others to follow the religious minority’s steps.

“Last year we well surpassed our fundraising and food donation goals and this year, with the support of people from organizations like the West End Islamic Centre, I know we can do it again,” Mayor Bonnie Crombie said in a statement issued earlier in October.

Mayor Crombie made the comments during a ceremonial cheque presentation held at the Mayor’s Office with members and leadership from the West End Islamic Centre, along with Ward 8 Councilor Matt Mahoney.

Councillor Mahoney, who represents the West End Islamic Centre at City Hall, said ”donations like this will offer assistants to our residents to put food on their table for their families and ensure our breakfast programs are well taken care of.”

The donation, $10,000, was presented by the Muslim community from the West End Islamic Centre.

“Many of our most vulnerable residents are often the same individuals who rely on foodbanks, like The Mississauga Food Bank,” Mayor Crombie said.

“Our 2016 Citywide Food Drive is a combined effort that is working toward supporting The Mississauga Food Bank’s Annual Thanksgiving Campaign in partnership with the City’s Fire and Emergency Services team.

“There’s still plenty of time to get involved. I encourage all residents to take part in the #OneBagChallenge.”

Muslims are the fastest growing religious community in Canada, according to the country’s statistical agency, Statistics Canada.

Canada’s Muslim population increased by 82 percent over the past decade – from about 579,000 in 2001 to more than 1 million in 2011.

Muslims represent 3.2 percent of Canada’s total population.