Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
Thousands of people in underprivileged communities have felt the warmth of the Holy Month of Ramadan, thanks to the wide-ranging projects of the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) – Abu Dhabi Centre for this season of kindness and generosity.
From financial aid to food parcels and iftar distributions, the humanitarian organisation ensures that those in need receive the necessary support.
This upcoming Eid Al Fitr, the ERC will continue to spread joy with an array of initiatives for the less fortunate.
"These efforts promote the humanitarian values of solidarity, compassion, and community support - core values that have long been a hallmark of the UAE's identity," Saleem Sultan Al Suwaidi, Director of the Abu Dhabi Centre of the ERC, told Aletihad.
One of the centre's core projects this season is Ramadan Assistance, which offers financial aid to vulnerable families to help cover essential living expenses. With 1,462 beneficiary cases, this initiative directly supports 6,598 individuals, allowing them to meet their basic needs during the Holy Month.
To ensure families receive adequate nutrition during Ramadan, the ERC rolled out the Food Parcels project. About 18,000 individuals received care packages containing essential items throughout the month of fasting.
The organisation also provided free iftar meals at 51 locations across the region. This project reached a staggering 360,000 beneficiaries, ensuring that those in need can have proper meals after a day of fasting.
Those in especially difficult circumstances are also able to receive meals at 10 different distribution points under the Breaking the Fast (Kissar al-Siyam) initiative. This project supported 200,000 individuals, particularly those who struggle to afford meals.
Celebrating Eid with Dignity
Another key initiative is the Zakat Al Fitr, which is aimed at providing the less fortunate with the means to celebrate Eid with dignity. The ERC has distributed Zakat Al Fitr for 2,014 beneficiary cases, helping 7,107 individuals cover basic necessities and enjoy the festivities.
Some 486 individuals are also gifted with new clothes under the Eid Clothing initiative.
"These campaigns represent the UAE's ongoing commitment to its humanitarian leadership and contribute to alleviating the suffering of families in need and improving their living conditions," Al Suwaidi said.
Through these projects, the ERC continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring that the spirit of Ramadan and Eid is felt by all, particularly the most vulnerable members of society.
