Sultan bin Ahmed participates in Clothing for Olive Children

Sharjah 24: His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Humanitarian Envoy of The Big Heart Foundation, took part in the "Clothing for Olive Children" initiative Thursday afternoon. The event, organised by The Big Heart Foundation, and run until March 26 at City Centre Al Zahia in Sharjah, is part of its Ramadan campaign to bring joy to 20,000 Palestinian orphans in Gaza.

Purpose of the "Clothing for Olive Children" Initiative

The "Clothing for Olive Children," launched by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, Chairperson of The Big Heart Foundation, and Eminent Advocate for Refugee Children at the UNHCR, seeks to raise zakat and charity funds during Ramadan. The campaign aims to provide essential support and care for orphaned children in the Gaza Strip, addressing the urgent humanitarian crisis faced by those who have lost their parents and are struggling without a breadwinner or support.

Overview of the initiative and goals

His Highness, The Big Heart Foundation's Humanitarian Envoy, received an overview of the initiative's goals, the process for packing and preparing boxes with children's supplies, and the efforts of the relevant authorities to ensure the timely delivery of new clothing and essentials to the children of Gaza, bringing joy and happiness to their hearts.

Contents of the boxes for children

His Highness was briefed on the contents of the boxes, which are designed for children aged birth to 18 years, catering to both boys and girls. The boys' box includes a jacket, shirt, pants, underwear, socks, and shoes, while the girls' box contains a dress, jacket, shirt, pants, underwear, socks, and shoes. The clothing provided is tailored to respect the beneficiaries' customs and traditions, while also considering the local climate to ensure the children’s comfort and well-being.

Process of packing the boxes

His Highness, the Humanitarian Envoy of The Big Heart Foundation, along with the attendees, observed the process of packing the boxes, which began with receiving a card that detailed the child’s age, gender, and a list of the required clothing. The next step involved filling the box with age-appropriate children’s supplies and clothing based on the information on the card. Once the items were packed and matched the specified list, the box was sealed. Additionally, His Highness wrote heartfelt words on the accompanying card, sending a message of hope and love to the orphans of Gaza, making the experience even more meaningful and impactful for the recipients.

Invitation for volunteers and donors

The Big Heart Foundation, in collaboration with Taawon, Majid Al Futtaim Group, and Operation Gallant Knight, is organising an initiative from March 20 to 26. The foundation invites volunteers and donors to help prepare 20,000 boxes of in-kind assistance for orphaned children in Gaza. Box-packing sessions will be held daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and again from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Call for donations and personalised contributions

The Big Heart Foundation invites community members, businesses, institutions, and government agencies to support the "Clothing for Olive Children" initiative by volunteering and donating AED 200, the cost of providing essential supplies for one orphaned child. Donations can be made through various channels, including the official website, text messages, bank transfers, and online fundraising platforms such as "YallaGive." The initiative’s website also offers sponsors and donors the opportunity to personalise their contributions, decorate boxes, and write heartfelt messages to the children, adding a special and meaningful touch to their support.