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Release date: Saturday, August 17, 2024, 6:00 AM
The UAE strongly believes in giving back to the community, and the concept is woven into the fabric of society in the country, with numerous initiatives undertaken to help those less fortunate.
2017 was also declared the “Year of Giving” by former President Sheikh Khalifa. The year focused on three main pillars. The first was fostering a sense of community responsibility in the private sector. The second was encouraging professional volunteer programs. The third pillar aimed to instill loyalty and commitment in the next generation to serve their country.
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These efforts have greatly improved the community’s attitude towards philanthropy, which is now an essential part of most residents’ lives. If you would like to give back, here is what you can donate:
1. Books
Do you have a bookshelf full of books you no longer read? You can donate your old books to multiple locations across the UAE.
Dubai Public Library accepts all books except textbooks and magazines. In other emirates, some bookstores and online communities also accept read books.
You can sell books or take part in a free educational book swap at Book Hero in Dubai’s Oasis Mall. You can also sell books on Facebook in groups such as “Unused & Used Books – UAE” and “Used books in UAE”.
2. Clothing
Across Dubai, bins have been installed where residents can throw away their old clothes. These bins are usually large, green and located in residential areas and shopping malls.
Most charities across the UAE also accept second-hand clothes, but only if they are not torn, tattered or damaged.
3. Toys
Has your child grown or suddenly lost interest in a favorite toy? Maybe another child wants it!
As with clothing, most large charities also accept toys.
4. Furniture
If you want to declutter your home and make it more “minimalist” and chic, why not consider donating your furniture instead of selling it?
Some pages on social media (especially Facebook) have communities where you can post pictures of the furniture you want to donate so that someone who needs it can get it. Pages such as “UAE Pay It Forward” and the popular “Free Your Stuff Dubai” are places where you can sell or donate your furniture.
Aside from social media, you can also donate to local charities, but be sure to call before you go.
5. Food
If you want to help provide meals for those in need, you can do so from anywhere.
Talabat and Careem are now offering the option to “donate a meal” to someone in need: simply add it to your cart and pay, just like you would if you were buying a meal for yourself.
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