Making a Difference This Ramadan: UAE Food Bank and Majid Al Futtaim Deliver 3,300 Meals Daily

In a move that deepens their commitment to enhancing food security and community welfare, the UAE Food Bank and Majid Al Futtaim, the exclusive operator of Carrefour in the UAE, have embarked on a strategic partnership this Ramadan. Together, they aim to provide over 3,300 daily meals as part of a broader endeavor to bolster the 1,000 Meals programme of the UAE Food Bank. This initiative reflects a shared mission to nurture a sustainable food ecosystem and offer support to communities in need.

Dr. Günther Helm, Chief Executive Officer of Majid Al Futtaim Retail, articulated the organization's dedication to community and food security initiatives. "Majid Al Futtaim Retail is steadfast in its commitment to initiatives that address food security and uplift our local community. Ramadan, as a celebration of generosity and giving, inspired us to launch our 'Unlock the Spirit of Ramadan' initiative and our partnership with the UAE Food Bank is a cornerstone of this endeavour - allowing us to distribute 100,000 meals to those who need it most.” Dr. Helm also expressed pride in aligning with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for a cohesive, supportive community across the UAE, confident in the positive outcomes of collaborative efforts.

Integral to the meal distribution, Carrefour's 'Care Vans’ will play a crucial role. These mobile units are set to deliver prepared meals to workers at various locations throughout the UAE, along with providing dates and water at strategic points like traffic signals, bus stops, and metro stations in Dubai. This ensures that individuals are able to break their fast conveniently, even when in transit. Carrefour’s team of volunteers will also actively participate in these distribution activities, showcasing their commitment to community support.

Manal Bin Yaroof, Head of the Executive Team of the UAE Food Bank, shared insights into the mission driving this collaboration: "At the UAE Food Bank, our mission is to promote a sustainable food system by efficiently redistributing surplus food to those in need, reducing waste, and strengthening food security. This collaboration with Carrefour exemplifies our commitment to fostering a culture of giving and sustainability, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan." Bin Yaroof further emphasized the initiative's aim to deliver 2,000 meals daily, highlighting the focus on responsible food management and fostering a community spirit centered on social solidarity and environmental responsibility.

In addition to meal provision, this partnership will see the involvement of Taya Art Production in the unique effort to highlight the culinary processes behind the Ramadan meals through a television series. This initiative is not only about showcasing cooking techniques but also promoting the innovative use of surplus food to minimize waste. This approach aligns with the core objectives of both the UAE Food Bank and Carrefour, encapsulating their commitment to sustainability. Furthermore, by partnering with Taya Art Production, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for SME Development, this collaboration underscores Carrefour's support for local SMEs and entrepreneurs, reinforcing its dedication to the local economy.

Carrefour’s contribution, in the form of in-kind donations, will supply all necessary meat and grocery items for meal preparation, ensuring that the meals are both nutritious and fulfilling. This contribution is a testament to Carrefour's strategy of fostering a reliable food security ecosystem, directly supporting the UAE Food Bank's effort to nourish and support the community through the 1,000 Meals programme.