13 women in El-Mahalla El-Kubra run charity kitchen to provide Ramadan Iftar

CAIRO – 9 March 2026: Thirteen women from El-Mahalla El-Kubra, in the Gharbia Governorate, have reached a significant milestone by running a successful charity kitchen for the 18th consecutive year. Through their dedicated efforts, the group prepares and serves a variety of meals to underprivileged families throughout the holy month of Ramadan.

The initiative also operates year-round, providing meals every Wednesday to approximately 100 families.

 

Rania Mahmoud, one of the founders of the kitchen, explained that the idea originated nearly two decades ago when a group of women decided to collaborate. Their goal was to establish a fully equipped facility dedicated to preparing and distributing high-quality meals to those in need.

Mahmoud highlighted the vital role of community support, noting that donors contribute both funds and resources to meet the kitchen's logistical needs. The kitchen currently employs 13 women who work in coordination to ensure the food meets high standards of quality and nutrition.

During Ramadan, the kitchen’s output increases significantly. It serves roughly 100 families daily, totaling approximately 450 individual meals depending on family size. Mahmoud noted that the team prepares for the holy month well in advance by purchasing supplies in bulk to minimize costs.

 

Once the food is cooked, it is carefully packaged and distributed while still hot. Mahmoud emphasized that the project remains a community-driven effort, sustained by the ongoing participation and generosity of local donors who are committed to the kitchen's mission.