2692 services by SSSD via “Ijaba” to elderly and Disabled

Kholoud Al Ali, the Director of the Senior Citizens Services Center, has reported that the "Ijaba" service has delivered a total of 2,692 services since its initiation. This initiative has significantly benefited the elderly and individuals with disabilities. The services rendered encompass the renewal of 599 health cards, 518 ID cards, and 596 passports. Additionally, the initiative has facilitated the procedures for the Sand card for 443 beneficiaries, as well as streamlined the processes for data management for funds, pension authorities, and aid-granting agencies for individuals residing in homes. Furthermore, the initiative has facilitated the transfer of documents through various available means for 536 beneficiaries.

The Director of the Senior Citizens Services Center explains the operational framework of the program, which aims to assist the elderly and individuals with disabilities. The Director mentioned that the program previously relied on case managers to oversee registered cases within the department and identify deficiencies or delays in the renewal of crucial identification documents. Subsequently, the center would reach out to the individuals involved and request permission to facilitate the completion of their paperwork. The individuals retain the autonomy to either accept or decline the assistance offered. The objective of the program is to ensure the comfort and convenience of the individuals it serves.

In the second phase, characterized as proactive, efforts were directed towards leveraging departmental data to identify cases necessitating specific services, resulting in an increased volume of requests. Collaboration with relevant government agencies, including the Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority, Sharjah City Municipality, Sharjah Economic Development Department, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security, was undertaken to streamline processes such as ID renewal, health card renewal, bill payment, and transaction clearance. The financial burden associated with these services is typically shared between the department and the beneficiary, with exceptions made for cases warranting full departmental or beneficiary coverage.