Homeless kids in New York receive winter coats

New York - The initiative was part of the UAE's ongoing humanitarian efforts in the city

The UAE Consulate in New York donated dozens of new winter coats to children in need through the Department of Homeless Services, an agency committed to preventing and addressing homelessness in New York City.

The initiative, organised by the NYC Mayor's Office for International Affairs and NYC Service, was part of the UAE's ongoing humanitarian efforts in the city. It was undertaken in line with the country's 2017 Year of Giving, declared by the President, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

"The UAE has made great strides in charitable and philanthropic work and it is necessary to open up people to the idea of giving back to society," Shaikh Khalifa said in a statement.

The New York Consulate purchased winter coats for children in the age group of 7-16 years. The coats were delivered to the families at various shelter locations across the city.

"We're proud to partner with the NYC to support families in need," Majid Al Suwaidi, Consul-General of the UAE in New York, said. "The project to distribute winter coats reinforces the UAE's commitment to philanthropy and promotes the shared UAE-US interests and values."

The New York Consulate is an active partner in the NYC civic community. Globally, the country is a major donor of foreign aid and is credited for the world's second highest foreign development spending.

• UAE