People sitting outsides mosques waiting for monetary assistance has increased over the years during Fridays and other festivals celebrated by Muslims.

The high priest of Toorak Mosque Faiyaz Ali Khan said that he believes this is because of the global financial crisis and the high food prices.

He said they had close to 45 people sitting outside the Toorak Mosque yesterday morning waiting for Muslims to come out after performing their prayers and give them alms.