Over the last three years, domestic violence has increased by 30% in Canada*. At the same time, hate crimes have increased by 25%, while we're also facing a cost of living and housing crisis. All of these challenges make it harder for women to not only leave abusive relationships but seek help or get back on their feet. 

My heart aches for the women and children who have nowhere to turn in these difficult times, women who could be our neighbours or praying next to us at taraweeh, like:

• Fatima was told by a service provider that "the problem is your religion & community; you need to leave it to get better"
• Lina who, when looking for a rental, was told by a landlord, "I don't want to rent to a Muslim t*****"
• Fariha who had a great career back home, but no one would hire without "Canadian experience," forcing her to sleep in her car with her 3 children for several days.

That's why I'm asking for your help to protect Muslim women and children across Canada this Ramadan. 

"The person who strives on behalf of the widows and poor is like those who strive in the way of Allah and like those who fast in the day and pray at night." (Albani)

Nisa Foundation programs - Nisa Homes, Nisa Helpline, and Nisa Learning - aim to build strong, safe communities by tackling these different barriers & violence against women through not just our shelters and mental health counselling but also through prevention and educational workshops to address the root cause. But they need our help to make this a reality! 

Nisa Foundation, which brought together Nisa Helpline and Nisa Homes (formerly a part of the National Zakat Foundation Canada), serves as a pillar of support for all Muslim women and children across Canada, regardless of background and status. As they navigate the unique challenges of domestic violence, homelessness, and mental health issues, we stand as the only organization uniquely tailored to address their needs. 

Since 2015, we’ve grown significantly, establishing ten shelters nationwide that have provided safe shelter for over 1,700 women and children. Our impact goes beyond sheltering as we received over 52,000 calls for holistic helpline support. Together, Nisa Homes and Nisa Helpline have empowered thousands of women to reclaim their lives and independence, providing the tools and support needed to thrive.