Muslim Hate Comes in Various Forms: Attacking a Muslim Welfare Organization Simply Because of Its Name is One Example.

The story of Muslim Welfare Canada’s founding is both human and heartfelt, reflecting its mission.

In the late 1980s, Major Muhammad Abbas Ali and his wife, Sarwar Jahan Begum, an immigrant couple from Pakistan, arrived in Canada. Driven by a spirit of community service and a focus on local charitable causes, Major Abbas undertook several charity walks—such as from Toronto to Ottawa and Toronto to Niagara Falls—to raise funds for the Canadian Arthritis Society.

In 1993, Major Abbas and Sarwar Jahan Begum, affectionately known as Uncle and Aunty, established a small Halal Food Bank in Scarborough, Ontario, under the banner of the Muslim Welfare Center of Toronto. Their motto was: “Service to humanity is service to Allah (God).” This achievement was made possible by a loan from a good friend and supporter.

However, Uncle and Aunty were not content to rest on their laurels. They soon set a new goal to provide a haven for needy women and children, addressing a critical need in the community. This dream was realized in 1996 with the establishment of the “Muslim Welfare Home for Needy Women and Children” in Whitby, Ontario.

Many more services were added over time, including support for children, free clinics, water exploration, disaster relief, halal meals-on-wheels, halal food banks in Montreal and Mississauga (2005), and a free medical clinic for the uninsured in Scarborough (2009).

The couple’s dedication caught the attention of the provincial government, which helped Muslim Welfare Canada establish a 192-bed long-term care home in the Durham region of Ontario. This project received funding as part of the Ontario government’s commitment to build 58,000 new and upgraded long-term care beds across the province.

Unfortunately, this success triggered a backlash from certain Muslim hate groups in the province. Unfounded rumors and outright lies began to circulate, with some suggesting that the government was unfairly favoring a ‘Muslim’ organization over mainstream centers.

One of the many posts circulating was from a man identifying himself as Robert (last name withheld): “If this doesn’t get your blood boiling, nothing will. After seeing a sign that reads ‘Muslim Welfare Residences,’ I want to know why Canadian taxpayers are funding housing for people who hate them, their country, and who refuse to assimilate into society…“

On June 2, 2026, Whitby’s mayor, Elizabeth Roy, stepped in to address the misinformation head-on. In a lengthy social media post, she wrote:

“I want to correct harmful misinformation circulating on social media about a valued community partner. For over 30 years, Muslim Welfare Canada’s shelter in Whitby has supported thousands of women and children in crisis, offering stability and hope during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. This shelter serves women and children of all races, ethnicities, faiths, and backgrounds. Its doors are open to anyone in need. This is just one example of the life-changing work being done by Muslim Welfare Canada.”

Others echoed her sentiments. Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility, remarked, “This is a marvelous example of how culturally appropriate care can be delivered in Ontario. The Muslim Welfare Canada Long-Term Care home has been a labor of love for many years and recognizes the incredible contributions of the Muslim community to help make Ontario the best province in Canada.”

Many other MPPs and mayors from neighboring cities added their support.

While Muslim Welfare Canada appreciated the encouragement from provincial authorities, it was the overwhelming support from past guests and patients on social media that truly made their day.

Here is a selection of online posts celebrating Muslim Welfare Canada for their community work: 

1.       “There are a lot of people who think it’s only for Muslims. It’s not. The women who run the facilities, including one in Mississauga, dedicate their lives to helping. They helped my family and me when my life fell apart. I can’t thank them enough,” wrote Sue.

2.       “I am one of the women they have helped, and I’m white and pagan. Religion was never a factor during our time in the shelter; we only avoided pork out of respect. They are a wonderful organization. The majority of the women there were white. So, don’t tell me this is a racial issue when it’s clearly not,” said Stephanie.

3.       Polly added, “I’ve known several women and girls that this organization has helped. None of them was Muslim. All were in crisis, and all were assisted. Every community needs kind, caring individuals to help lift their neighbors.”

Here’s wishing MWC all the success they deserve. God bless!

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