Halifax's Muslim community has linked its annual food drive with Ramadan, a month of prayer, fasting, charity and self-accountability.

"It is called 'Share the Spirit of Ramadan' because it is exactly what that title means. So during the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until dusk, during that time they abstain from water and food," said co-ordinator Asraa El-Darahali.

"So they feel what hunger really feels like."

Muslims can identify with food and hunger issues during Ramadan, says food drive co-ordinator Asraa El-Darahali. (Stephanie vanKampen/CBC)

500 families to feed

The event took place Sunday at Mic Mac Mall in Dartmouth.

Last year, the group set a goal to feed 500 families, to gather about $10,000 worth of non-perishable items and monetary donations. It beat that figure, raising $15,000 and filling a 14-foot trailer with food items.

They hope to do the same this year, El-Darahali said.

Spirit of Ramadan food drive was held by Halifax Muslims on Saturday at Mic Mac Mall. (Stephanie vanKampen/CBC)

Ramadan helps to encourage giving

"We're hoping that the community is going to come out, donate for this great cause. The charities that we are supporting are Feed Nova Scotia and all the homeless shelters in HRM, Bayers Westwood Family Resource Centre and Parker Street House."

She said Ramadan is a time where all Muslims should be thinking about others.

"We're going hungry for 18 1/2 hours, that's how long the days have been this year. So you're feeling hunger and what hunger does to you. And you're able to feel more compassion, more empathetic towards those people who have gone without a meal."