Run for Palestine, the annual national fundraiser, took a new turn in London on Sunday with a family picnic aimed at supporting Gaza relief and bringing the community together.
“We usually hold a full run, but this year we felt the community needed a space to come together, share a meal and support each other,” said Samah Al Sabbagh, president of the Canadian Palestinian Social Association.
Among the many volunteers were Omar Sakr and Rayyan Khan, who said lending a hand was the least they could do.
Omar Sakr and Rayyan Khan
“We’re volunteering to raise money for Gaza, and it’s just to help our brothers and sisters out,” Sakr said. ”We’re in the park on a beautiful Sunday afternoon, and it’s great to see everybody come out,” Khan added.
Diab Saad, volunteering with Islamic Relief, called the work deeply personal.
“We’re here with Islamic Relief, a chance to help our brothers and sisters in Palestine,” Saad said. “All the donations we get here go for helping them-food, sanitary needs, all that. It’s a passion of mine to help my people in Palestine.”
The picnic at Greenway Park featured a barbecue, bake sale and special-edition T-shirts. Proceeds support three key projects:
- Glia Gaza Medical Support Initiative, which sends doctors and medical supplies to the besieged territory.
- Islamic Relief Canada, providing food and essential goods through local partners.
- The Omar Barzak Youth Scholarship, helping Palestinian students continue their education abroad.
Al Sabbagh said every donation matters despite the high cost of getting aid into Gaza.
“Even a small amount makes a difference,” she said. “If everyone thinks their dollar won’t help, nothing will reach those families. We all share the responsibility to support and to speak out.”
The T-shirts feature black for mourning, red poppies symbolizing lives lost, and a kufeya-patterned map of Palestine with a quote about Gaza.
Al Sabbagh said they serve as both a fundraiser and a conversation starter. “When people wear them, it opens dialogue and spreads awareness.”
Samah Al Sabbagh, president of CPSA
She added that the event is as much about emotional support as financial aid.
“It’s not just about money,” she said. “It’s about giving people a safe space, meeting new families and showing solidarity while we witness this humanitarian crisis.”
The picnic ran from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Donations and T-shirt purchases can be made through the Run for Palestine Eventbrite link shared on social media.
