SSSD holds "Gulf Family" event to enhance cross-gen communication

Maryam Al Suwaidi, the director of the Family Gathering Center, explained that the purpose of the event was to encourage meaningful communication between different generations—past, present, and future. She highlighted the importance of bringing families together to share experiences and strengthen cultural and social ties among Gulf families. The event aims to promote family unity and raise awareness about healthy parent-child relationships, particularly for families that are separated.

Established in 2010, the Family Gathering Center focuses on helping children maintain relationships with their separated parents in a safe environment. The center assists with arranging visitations, ensuring that children can spend time with both parents while also offering support through counseling and family workshops. They also help families affected by divorce to navigate parenting agreements.

Tariq Eid, a specialist in social education, discussed the changes in Gulf family structures from larger, extended families to smaller, nuclear families due to various social and economic factors. He encouraged the audience to listen to the experiences shared by older women, who spoke about their vital roles in managing families when husbands were absent and how divorce was less common in the past. Eid emphasized the importance of understanding marital responsibilities before getting married, especially given the rising divorce rates today.

On the health side, Dr. Ahmed Al Hammadi from the Emirates Health Services Corporation gave a talk on the importance of good nutrition and exercise for older adults. The Red Crescent Medical Center provided free health check-ups, including blood pressure and blood sugar tests. Additionally, Dr. Sharifa Al Suwaidi and Dr. Aisha Al Masafri from the University of Sharjah offered gifts and sweets to attendees, adding a festive touch to the day.

The event wrapped up with fun workshops organized by the Production Center, where participants of all ages engaged in hands-on crafts and creative activities, promoting a sense of community and teamwork.