“It’s one of the main events for Muslims,” says Amjad Elsakka, who celebrates Eid al-Adha, “because the month of Hajj, the pilgrimage for Muslims, is coming up.” Known as the “Festival of the Sacrifice”, it is one of the biggest holidays in the Islamic calendar. As Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Adha, an Ottawa restaurant is taking it a step further by handing out free food to the homeless. On Sunday, Mediterranean restaurant Phynicia took to the streets of downtown Ottawa to fight back. “Every Eid we do something for those in need,” says Phynicia employee Amar Al Bardan. “So this Eid we decided to shut down and do something like this.” The restaurant donated hundreds of meals to the less fortunate. Owner Firas Al Bardan says Eid is all about giving back and helping those who need it most. “Our goal is to motivate people to help others,” says Firas. “The homeless people in the city center were all very happy. We gave water, sweets, pies, pizza.” “We gave away about 100 pies and some necessities like clothes, toothbrushes,” says Amal. “I felt really good. People were happy, so we’re happy to do this.”
