Sharjah24: For the ninth consecutive year, the Elderly Care Center in the Sharjah Social Services Department opened its doors to welcome guests for Ramadan, inviting them to share iftar meals with the elderly residents as part of the "Khatir Al-Dar" voluntary initiative. This initiative promotes community integration by bringing together seniors, friends, and family from diverse backgrounds around the iftar table.
"Khatir Al-Dar," meaning "visitors to the center," has been organized since 2016 as an open volunteering opportunity for both adults and children, as well as institutions and companies, to bring joy to the elderly and share the Ramadan spirit. Mariam Al-Qatari, the director of the center, noted that this initiative fosters community cohesion and provides happiness for the elderly residents, who gather with guests for social interaction during the holy month.
Exciting developments
Al-Qatari mentioned that the entire month of Ramadan has been fully booked by visitors, including the days of Eid al-Fitr, reflecting a strong social bond with the elderly. To celebrate Ramadan and its visitors, the center has been decorated with lanterns and lights, and iftar tables have been set up both indoors and outdoors to attract more participants. The center can accommodate up to 100 guests daily.
Activities and prayer
"Khatar Al-Dar" includes not just iftar but also the opportunity for the elderly to perform Taraweeh prayers at the center's mosque with Sheikh Mustafa Abdel Fattah, who conducts daily religious programs for the elderly and their guests.
Registration and volunteer opportunities
Al-Qatari stated that registration for "Khatar Al-Dar" is done through the Sharjah Volunteering Center under the Social Services Department, requiring prior booking. The center provides iftar meals and welcomes guests who wish to distribute gifts or organize activities, emphasizing the goal of ensuring the elderly have enjoyable and fulfilling experiences.
Diverse programmes
The "Khatir Al-Dar" sessions include various programs, such as poetry sessions, health awareness activities, cultural quizzes, and discussions about inherited traditions. Additionally, there are professional skill workshops, storytelling about the past, and interactive cultural exchanges.
Special Ramadan programmes
Al-Qatari highlighted that many religious programs and activities are organized during Ramadan alongside "Khatir Al-Dar." The center coordinates with the Sharjah Islamic Affairs Department to offer lectures for residents. They also distribute iftar meals to workers during iftar time in collaboration with Sharjah Police. Furthermore, they commemorate Zayed Humanitarian Day on the 26th of Ramadan, honoring the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan by preparing the center with Quran copies and prayers, as well as distributing pamphlets and prayer booklets to attendees at the mosque.
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