Sharjah: The Expo Centre Sharjah buzzed with energy and purpose as thousands of community members gathered for the ‘UAE Stands with Lebanon’ relief aid collection event on Saturday.
Following successful rounds in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the Sharjah edition is also part of the larger humanitarian effort organised in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and The Big Heart Foundation. The initiative aims to provide essential aid to families affected by the ongoing conflict in Lebanon.
From the early morning hours, volunteers worked together to pack essentials such as food supplies, hygiene products, and winter items.
‘It’s so heartening’
Alya Al Matrooshi, media officer at The Big Heart Foundation, expressed her appreciation for the large turnout on a weekend.
“It’s so heartening to see so many people come together for a common cause. It’s amazing to see their efforts. They left their homes early to be here,” she said.
Community members, young and old, packed supplies such as oil, wheat, sugar, salt, canned food, tea, dates, biscuits, blankets, shampoo, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, among other items.
Sara Khaled Nofal, an 11-year-old volunteer from Jordan with Sharjah Charity International, felt proud to be part of the initiative.
“I get emotional when I see videos of small children affected by the crisis in Lebanon and Gaza. So when I got this opportunity, I knew I had to do my part. I’m always praying for them and hoping for their safety,” Sara said.
The initiative highlights the UAE’s ongoing commitment to timely humanitarian assistance.
