UAE Stands With Lebanon Campaign Collects 250 Tonnes Of Relief Aid With Support From 3000 Volunteers

The "UAE stands with Lebanon" campaign gathered 250 tonnes of relief aid at Expo Centre Sharjah. This effort involved 3,000 volunteers from various segments of UAE society. Organised by the Big Heart Foundation (TBHF) and Sharjah Charity International (SCI), it was supervised by the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council. The initiative saw significant public participation, highlighting the community's commitment to humanitarian causes.

Launched on 8th October, the campaign has been ongoing for two weeks. It was initiated under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President. His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, followed up on its progress. H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan supervised it as Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs.

The event in Sharjah witnessed a remarkable turnout from the community. Dignitaries such as Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ruler’s Office, and Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairman of SCI's Board of Directors, participated actively. Their involvement underscored the leadership's dedication to aiding those in need.

Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi emphasised that supporting humanitarian work is a fundamental trait of the UAE. He praised the collaboration among various humanitarian institutions in campaigns like this one. The collective effort reflects a strong commitment to helping those facing difficulties.

Mariam Al Hammadi, Director General of TBHF, highlighted the extensive support received since the campaign's inception. "This support for humanitarian efforts has been very consistent. Both the public and private sectors have enthusiastically come out to extend a helping hand," she stated.

Abdullah bin Khadem, Executive Director of Sharjah Charity International, noted that community participation in such initiatives showcases Emirati society's compassionate nature. The diverse involvement in humanitarian aid campaigns demonstrates a shared desire to assist those experiencing hardships.

Collaborative Efforts by UAE Organisations

The campaign saw active participation from numerous UAE humanitarian foundations and charities. These included Emirates Red Crescent (ERC), Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, and Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives.

Other participating organisations were Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai, Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi Foundation for Humanitarian Affairs, Ahmad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation for charitable works, Dubai Humanitarian, Dubai Cares, and Sharjah Charity Association.

The Big Heart Foundation also played a crucial role alongside Emirates Foundation, "Volunteers-Emirates" Foundation, Sharjah Volunteer Centre, Fujairah Charity Association, Watani Al Emarat Foundation, International Charity Organisation (ICO), Emirates Charitable Association, Sharjah Charity House, Dar Al Ber Society, Dubai Charity Association, and "Day for Dubai" Foundation.

This collaborative effort underscores the UAE's dedication to providing aid during crises. The campaign not only highlights unity but also showcases how different sectors can come together for a common cause.

With inputs from WAM