A wall that promotes culture of giving

Dubai - The idea behind the concept is to facilitate a kind of exchange among the school community and help them out in the process

'If you need it, take it. If you don't need it, leave it'.
A school in Deira is teaching its tiny tots such valuable lessons, during the process of installing a wall of giving on the school premises. With over 900 students from KG1 to Grade 6, the Little Flower English School is educating its kindergarten and primary class kids how small contributions can make a big difference by way of this charitable venture to help the needy - 'LFES Wall of Giving'.
The idea behind the concept is to facilitate a kind of exchange among the school community and help them out in the process.
Explaining the concept behind the Wall of Giving, Annie Mathew, supervisor (Primary), at LFES said: "Parents can come and deposit at this wall belongings that are in good condition but are no longer of use to them, like prams, cycles, baby strollers, books, toys, clothes etc. They might also be in need of things which they cannot afford to buy. They can come and see what they need at the wall and pick it up from there, free of cost."
Parents can also pick up stuff or exchange some of their stuff at the wall. They can do the same for some needy person they know, Annie told Khaleej Times. "People came and took what they wanted and left what they brought with them," she said.
The beautifully decorated wall was inaugurated two weeks ago and was inundated with an array of things contributed by the school kids, parents and staff. "We would like our students to realise that we need not be affluent to be charitable. Even a small act of kindness is laudable. This is also an environment-friendly way of giving, as students learn about reusing and recycling things rather than throwing away," Annie said.
Principal Abdullah Kutty said: "Through the LFES Wall of Giving, we would like to send across the message that it is not just receiving one has to do always, but giving too, which is equally important. Giving never depletes anything, rather it replenishes everything. Developing a culture of giving among students through this humble initiative has got an overwhelming response from parents and students."
A parent, Anuradha Jagannath, who participated whole heartedly in the project said: "It is a great opportunity for parents to be part of such a noble venture and to educate the children about the value of giving. I felt very happy to see this 'Give and Take' event and I feel it helps us to bond with each other too."
Ayshathul Zakiyya, a grade 6 student said: "We enjoyed painting the wall and arranging things. It was great fun to work with friends and teachers. More importantly, we are happy to get this opportunity to help others. I picked up a few books from the Wall of Giving as well."
Grade 1 student, Izaan Razi, said with a twinkle in his eye: "I was very happy to see an older gentleman take my bicycle for his grandson."
Another parent added: "I am so happy to experience the LFES wall of giving . It will be helpful for kids to learn how to make a difference and to bridge the divide between the haves and have nots of the community, encourage people to practice the act of giving and share selflessly, especially during this Year of Giving.
The wall is placed at the reception area of the school, located in Hor Al Anz area of Deira.
saman@khaleejtimes.com