Embrace the spirit of giving this Ramadan

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Embrace the spirit of giving this Ramadan
There are several secure ways residents in the UAE can reach out and help those in need

You, too, can make a big difference in someone's life with a humble donation this Ramadan

by

Farhana Chowdhury

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Published: Thu 25 May 2017, 12:43 PM

Last updated: Mon 26 Mar 2018, 12:58 PM

The act of giving is highly treasured in the UAE, and Ramadan enhances the spirit. The holy month opens up various outlets, especially in popular destinations such as shopping malls and hypermarkets, that encourage residents to donate and help the needy. 
Charity during Ramadan, or at any time of the year for that matter, is not an obligation, but an extension of kindness to humanity. Charity, also known as Zakat, is one of the pillars of Islam that promotes the sharing of wealth with the poor. It is part of thanking Allah for bestowing believers with the ability to afford necessities and be financially stable in society. 
In order to ease the donation process, the government of the UAE is affiliated with, and has established, a number of charities that are transparent and show donators exactly where their funds are going. From financially aiding families with food and first-aid in war-torn countries to giving clothes and providing children with education, there are several secure ways residents can reach out and help.
With internet connectivity and the use of mobile devices on the rise, there are several apps tailored to serve the purpose of charity. Besides specialised apps for renowned charities, banks in the UAE too have tied up with several establishments to offer convenient donation options. With a simple shake or click of a button, banking clients can send a desired sum of money to charities of their choice. They can also opt for a hassle-free system that automatically donates a set amount every month. 
Complementary treats: An interesting initiative that the UAE has undertaken is the concept of Ramadan fridges. These are community-based chillers that offer complimentary food and drinks for those who cannot afford to buy them. Furthermore, residents in the area are also encouraged to spare a small amount to purchase meals and leave it in the fridge for the needy to take.  
Care packages: In Islam, the sole thought of helping others is considered a good deed. All residents, regardless of their religion and beliefs, are welcome to help others prepare a basic care package that are often distributed to blue-collared workers and underprivileged families. These often include basic ingredients such as cooking oil, flour and rice, as well as toiletries and hygiene items like a toothbrush, toothpaste, body soap, shampoo and deodorant, for example. 
A quick scout around your neighbourhood would give you a fair idea of more charities and donation options in the UAE, not only during Ramadan, but also throughout the year. 
Get involved
Here are some government and private institutions to help out:
Dubai Cares: A strong advocate of education, Dubai Cares is a philanthropic initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, that aimed to improve the access to primary education for children and strives to establish global partnerships for development in line with the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals. 
Website: www.dubaicares.ae
Sameness Project: Led by social innovators based in Dubai, the Sameness Project aims to reconnect residents with humanity by gathering organisations and individuals to take part in stimulating campaigns. From addressing taxi drivers beyond their occupation to offering cold water to labourers and engaging them in conversation, there is a lot residents can do as a gesture of kindness
and empathy.
Website: www.thesamenessproject.com
Emirates Red Crescent: The humanitarian organisation offers residents options to assist in various causes, ranging from donations to sponsoring orphans, poor families, special needs and students. It also offers volunteer opportunities in several projects,
including construction of homes, mosques, schools, etc., and takes part in international and local operations to provide relief and aid.
Website: www.emiratesrc.ae/home_page_en 
Beit Al Khair Society: Besides the presence of big green donation containers in different areas across the emirate, Beit Al Khair Society has a seasonal Ramadan Mer Project that secures food parcels for distribution to poor families in the UAE throughout the holy month. Residents can donate an Iftar meal to one or more families by using a set coupon. It also has an Eidiya project that gives sponsored orphans, special needs, and low-income families a chance to celebrate Eid with a feast and gifts.
Website: wwwlbeitalkhair.org/en 
Dar Al Ber: With over 18,000 projects across the globe, Dar Al Ber Society has been heavily involved in philanthropic initiatives since 1979. Residents in the UAE can assist by donating clothes for poor and orphaned children, contribute to medical relief caravans to aid affected areas, help build mosques, and spread the message of peace through Islamic lectures, to name a few. Dar Al Ber has several branches across the emirates.
Website: www.daralber.ae/cms/en


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