The Canadian Muslim Response Network is distributing kits to people in Brampton and Mississauga over the coming weeks to help residents who may be more vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus and to the effects of self-isolation.

The network is a coalition of Canada’s leading Muslim civil society organizations, including Islamic Relief Canada, Human Concern International and the National Council of Canadian Muslims, among others.

The campaign started Monday, March 16 in the Greater Toronto Area. Over the next few weeks, the kits will be distributed by volunteers to hundreds of homes across Canada, including Brampton and Mississauga.

The kits will contain food essentials such as rice, oil, flour, beans, pasta and canned soup. There will also be cleaning products, including soap, disinfectant wipes, floor cleaner and laundry detergent, as well as personal hygiene products like a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, toilet paper and feminine hygiene products.

During the winter months, the network typically provides support for vulnerable people in the community, said Reyhana Patel, head of external relations for Islamic Relief Canada, which is based in Burlington.

This year, Patel said the network decided to extend its support to vulnerable people impacted by COVID-19, such as the elderly or people who are immune-compromised and can’t leave their home to shop for health reasons, as well as anyone who needs support.

Patel said the kits will be distributed to anyone across the GTA in need, not just members of the Muslim community.

“There are people out there who won’t get government support,” said Patel. “The kits are for everyone.”

People who want to receive a kit will need to register online to provide basic information and determine there is a need, at covid19relief.ca/gethelp, said Patel. People will then be contacted by a volunteer.

The network is also looking for donations. People or organizations interested in getting involved can sign up at covid19relief.ca/.