IQALUIT, Nunavut – The Islamic society in Iqaluit, the capital of Nunavut, the northernmost territory of Canada, has opened a new food bank to serve the underprivileged according to the tenets of Islam.

“We are striving to provide services to the underprivileged communities in accordance to our faith Islam and the Canadian integrative spirit,” said Muhammad Wani, the vice president of the Islamic Society of Nunavut, at the food bank’s opening on Sept. 28, CBC reported on October 2.

The society’s new food bank, the Arctic Food Bank, is to be open every two weeks, similar to the current Niqinik Nuatsivik Nunavut Food Bank.

The two food banks will open on alternating Saturdays, meaning that Iqaluit residents will have a food bank open each week.

Wani said opening the new food bank means low-income families in Iqaluit will be able to access food on a week-to-week basis.

“We are committed to serving all of those in need, irrespective of religion, nationality, caste or creed,” said Wani.

“I truly believe the love for humanity surpasses the demographic, religious and cultural barriers.”

Nunavut premier Joe Savikataaq, second from right, receives a plaque from members of the Islamic Society of Nunavut at the Arctic Food Bank’s official opening last week. (Allison Chandler/CBC)

The society has partnered with the Muslim Welfare Centre in Mississauga, Ont. to establish the food bank.

Muhammad Iqbal-Ali, the vice-president of the welfare center, said the City of Iqaluit has been very supportive of the group’s vision to open a new food bank.

Iqbal-Ali added the welfare center has received a warm welcome from the community, hoping to help the needy whenever they are able to.