Dubai: Across the emirates, junk and clutter builds up in affluent households. However, as the old adage goes, "one man's junk is another man's treasure".
This is precisely why Take My Junk was established — to take donations of "junk" from households and distribute the goods among the worker community of the UAE.
"Some of us are born lucky," Gaye Brodie told Gulf News on why she volunteers.
"It feels good to give to people that haven't been born in the same place as you. It's good to give back and try to make a difference to other people where you can: acts of kindness go a long way," she said.
Gaye, who has been volunteering on a full-time basis with the organisation for a couple of months, has also worked as a volunteer with another UAE charity for 18 months and also undertook voluntary work in her native New Zealand. So why does she volunteer?
"It's a wonderful feeling, a really good feeling. Some people are short-sighted and believe everything is about them — they become greedy. If we looked after each other it would be better," she said.
All types of unwanted possessions are collected for distribution among the worker community and to underprivileged families.
Everything from white goods, electrical items, computer equipment and even toys can be donated.
Brodie encourages others to do something for charity.
"Give it a go and see how it feels. Some people are afraid to do it… but it just takes a little bit to make a difference," she said.
There are three drop off points for small items (such as small bags, clothes, shoes and linen) — two in Dubai and one in Ajman, from where Faisal Khan runs the organisation.
For more information on how to donate: www.takemyjunkuae.com
