Donation box used as a dustbin

Recently, I happened to pass by a donation box in the Al Majaz area of Sharjah, and was shocked to see that the box was filled with garbage.

The Sharjah authorities have placed the donation boxes to collect bags, clothes and shoes, which could be used by people who are in need of it. But it is sad to witness that some people think they are helping the poor by using a box for a cause as a dustbin to throw juice or milk bottles and dumping unwanted items around it (as shown in the photographs).

I believe the main reason behind this inhuman act is an individual’s laziness. At times, people find it difficult to walk just a few steps to throw garbage at the designated area. We think that our responsibility begins and ends with keeping our house clean, but we forget that this concern extends towards the society, too.

Awareness about the purpose of donation boxes should be highlighted as people need to understand their responsibility towards the community. Also, the authorities could penalise people who are found dumping waste in the donation box.

I urge people to respect and care for the society that they live in.

Editor’s note: The management of Sharjah Charity International was contacted for further comments. Despite several reminders, the management failed to respond.

The reader is a business development manager in Dubai.

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