Small change can make big difference

Dubai: One dirham only can go a long way towards helping others in a new campaign launched by the Ministry of Social Affairs' Social Responsibility Fund.

The "Dirham Wa Bas" (One dirham only) campaign aims to raise funds for social care and development projects in the UAE. It is being supported by the Dubai International Financial Centre.

Mariam Al Roumi, Minister of Social Affairs, said: "The Dirham Wa Bas campaign aims to support sections of society that need our help, such as people with limited income, disabilities and the elderly. Everyone can contribute to this campaign. All financial contributions, starting from as little as one dirham, are needed and appreciated. The campaign is part of the Social Responsibility Fund's objective of bridging the gap between the public and private sector and uniting them to address and solve social and community issues."

The public will be encouraged to donate as little as one dirham, which can be deposited at donation boxes across the UAE. These locations include Emarat petrol stations, major shopping malls and retail stores.

"The Dirham Wa Bas campaign will tap the power of public participation to contribute towards social causes in the UAE. Small contributions can add up to make a huge difference. We seek the support of all members of the public across the UAE to make the Dirham Wa Bas campaign a success," Al Roumi said.

The DIFC will be supporting the campaign by offering marketing expertise and developing publicity campaigns, which will target the retail industry and the public.

Nasser Al Sha'ali, CEO of the DIFC Authority, said: "The Dirham Wa Bas campaign is a wonderful example of how different sectors of society, including the Government and the private sector, can work together to involve the individual in contributing towards social issues in the UAE. DIFC's support for the campaign is based on our strong belief that corporate organisations have an important role to play in the development and welfare of the community. We are committed to contributing to the well-being of the society we are part of."

The Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality and Telecoms provider Du will also be offering support.

How to participate

Do you think the concept of 'one dirham' donations will encourage you to donate more often? Have you heard of any other innovative charity campaigns that have been successful? Would you welcome more of such campaigns? Tell us at letter2editor@gulfnews.com or fill in the form bellow to send your comments.

It never ceases to amaze me how creative and active the UAE is when it comes to humanitarian issues and social well-being. I am a big supporter of this campaign
Sam
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: August 21, 2008, 11:20

That is wonderful, only 3 days ago I have spoken with my colleague that I would like to get only 1 dirham from one and each UAE residence and in fact it was in my mind for the past couple of years. Was thinking to have it for myself then.... Great staff, hope we will all make use of our 1 dirham in this campaign!
Julita
Dubai,UAE
Posted: August 21, 2008, 11:00

Fantastic idea to help people in UAE, I donate very often in those boxes placed in the malls. We people spend for shopping everyday more than 100Dhs sometimes, so 1Dhs is very small amount which anyone can afford to donate.
Gulnaz
Dubai,UAE
Posted: August 21, 2008, 10:47

This is a great idea. They can make it even better by allowing people to submit their donations through their mobile phones.
Husna
Abu Dhabi,UAE
Posted: August 21, 2008, 09:03

This is a great initiative. Many times we want to contribute to charity but worry about traffic, parking..Now with boxes reachable/ease of accessibility and the awareness campaign, am sure many will not hesitate.
Mai El Korashy
ADH,UAE
Posted: August 21, 2008, 08:21

Of course, Cheers to DIFC.. We are with you.. Thats a perfect, perfect idea! Its like allowing everybody to donate..
Muhammed
Dubai,UAE
Posted: August 21, 2008, 08:13

I am helping to raise money for an orphanage in Nepal and for Fujairah Welfare Association's family project. One of the ideas we use is "Milk Money" where we use Milk bottle to collect loose change - the 25 and 50 fills coins that everyone has in their purse but that can buy an orphan kid a glass of milk a day. It?s been successful so far. Check out www.trekkingfornepal.com
Mita
Dubai,UAE
Posted: August 21, 2008, 06:21