Yahya Hashemi and Ala Amiry are Heroes of Kindness #AtoZChallenge

When Sean Jalbert saw the sign outside the small restaurant in Montreal, he was suspicious. The sign taped on the door of the Mediterranean themed 'Marche Ferdous' written in English as well as French, read:

 "People with no money welcome to eat for free."

Sean decided to test them out and so went in and pretended not to have any money. He was blown away as they told him to have a seat and order anything he liked and take what he wanted from the fridge as well. After he finished eating, he revealed the truth and paid for his meal.

It was his social media post on it that caught the world's eye and brought news crews to the doorstep of the owner Yahya Hashemi. As it turned out, the Iranian immigrant had been doing this for about five months, adding the costs for free meals to his business expenses list. He remains confident that people will not take advantage of his generosity.

Hashemi and co-owner, Ala Amiry from Iraq got the idea when they found many asking for spare change to buy food at the currency exchange service next to the restaurant. He had also noticed dozens of homeless people sitting in the cold opposite the church and wanted to help. Deciding it was simpler and more dignified for those seeking help, he decided to just give them free access to eat at his restaurant rather than wait for them to beg.

He felt in this 'small' way, he was returning something back to the country that had given him so much love over the years. Inspired by his generosity, patrons have begun donating money so he can continue to help. Presently feeding 5-6 people a day for free, Hashemi and chef Abdelkader actually look forward to more people in need coming in for a free, hot meal at their restaurant.

At night if you still have leftover food you end up throwing it out, so why not give to those in need? 

- Abdelkader Bejaoui, chef

Why you should remember Yahya Hashemi and Ala Amiry

The two say that giving to people in need is part of their religion. They want people to know that 'immigrants like them are there who work hard to participate in the country's economy and social tissue.'

All religions have been misinterpreted over the years to suit one's needs and agendas. In such trying times, it is important to find context of one's religion within the boundaries of humanity, rather than the other way around.

It is important to be kind to those in need.

You can find Marche Ferdous on Facebook here.

This is part of my #AtoZChallenge where I will be focusing on Real Life Heroes: Shining Examples of Kindness and Compassion. You can find other real-life heroes here.