Dubai: Hundreds of residents affected by Monday night’s fire could be seen behind the Al Shamsi building on Tuesday, consoling each other as they huddled together.
Some of them were trying out clothes donated by good Samaritans, while many were simply sitting there reflecting on the night that changed their lives. “I ran out only in what I was wearing. I couldn’t even grab my phone. Now I don’t have anything. I am glad that people are donating clothes and other essential materials,” said Grace, who was trying out tops brought by social activists.
Several Filipinos volunteered to help their compatriots affected by the fire, pooling cash, arranging food as well as clothes and other necessities.
M.J. Feliciano, who is a freelance event manager and a social activist, was among the first to reach out to the victims.
“Whenever fellow Filipinos are affected, I, along with a few of my friends, try to do whatever we can. I have spoken with consulate officials, who have promised help. We have also arranged for food with some Filipino restaurants who are ready to provide whatever they can,” said Feliciano, who also brought several bags of clothes.
Several piles of clothes could be seen in the parking lot of Al Shamsi building’s Block F, where affected residents were trying them out.
“All of us have lost everything. We couldn’t go to work today as we don’t even have anything to wear. I don’t know if I can afford to buy myself an entire wardrobe of clothes now. I am grateful that some people are kind enough to think about our plight,” said Renaldo Collis.
The Filipino community is known for its camaraderie and social instincts and it was on ample display at Al Shamsi building on Tuesday.
It was heartening to see people, who had no relations to those affected, taking time out to deliver bags full of goodies.
“This can happen to anyone. A calamity is something beyond anyone’s control. In the Philippines were are used to facing natural calamities and the only way one can overcome it is by helping each other,” said Dianna Ignacio, who was at the fire site only to help, though she didn’t know anyone there.
Almost all of those affected spent a sleepless night after they were rendered homeless by the fire, but they were not without help.
Though some of them spent a good part of the night out in the open, many residents found space in the hearts and apartments of their friends and relatives.
However, a few spent the night in the lobbies of neighbouring buildings, with blankets and bedsheets provided by good Samaritans.
The real estate firm managing Al Shamsi building also accommodated a few dozen residents in several hotels.
