The government of New York City has announced plans to provide free meals during Ramazan to 500,000 Muslims in the area.

The development came in order to help families celebrate the holy month, especially those who lost their income because of the coronavirus lockdown.

Muslims in the city began the month Thursday. Usually, the month which is celebrated collectively will not be celebrated because of social distancing laws.

Owing to the pandemic, mosques which are normally open and serve the poor during the month will be closed down.

“One of Ramazan’s most noble callings is to feed the hungry,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said during a press conference on Thursday, according to CNN. “It’s a crucial part of how the holiday is celebrated, to remember to be there for those in need, and that is now harder than ever.”

New York would expand the distribution and availability of iftar meals across areas with large Muslim communities at 32 Grab and Go web sites.

There will be more than 400,000 halal meals at 435 school where all New Yorkers will go out for food. It will deliver another 100,000 halal meals through soup kitchens, food pantries and community organizations.