Dubai
Christmas, New Year and the holiday season in general is a time when most people’s thoughts turn to giving. There is surely more happiness in giving than there is in receiving. It would be wonderful if people gave as generously all year round and to remind them of this joy of giving, my sister and I initiated a campaign in the community called ‘Gift a Smile’.
This festive time is great to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. The things we no longer want or need are often useful for others, particularly for those less fortunate or financially comfortable than us.
We announced the campaign in our neighbourhood and went door-to-door to talk to the people about how a simple act on their part will go a long way in making a big impact in someone else’s life. We then organised a get together at our place to arrange for collection of the items, wherein our neighbours, friends and other members of the community brought books, toys, clothes, blankets and other things for gifting to the needy. It was wonderful to see everyone contribute so generously for this great cause.
After the items had been collected, we ensured that they were in proper condition and thereafter packed them neatly into boxes. These were finally deposited to the Emirates Red Crescent, a humanitarian organisation taking care of the underprivileged during times of crises, such as wars and natural disasters.
Swati Nagpal, a homemaker based in Bur Dubai, participated in this campaign and said: “It was a pleasant experience for my children to attend the special gathering. They got a chance to donate toys, clothes and books for the underprivileged, which is important as this shows our love and care for them. It helps children understand the needs of others and instills a desire to share and serve the society.”
Harsh Kukreja, a student based in Dubai, also took part in the campaign.
He said: “Attending the campaign was a great opportunity for everyone to support the underprivileged and needy. I believe that it is important to support them because they are also humans who deserve the right to live a normal life like ours. Humans are dependent on each other. It is honourable to be a part of such a charitable campaign.”
Through this community report, I would like to inspire the readers to make sincere efforts to do their bit for those less fortunate and less privileged. All of us should come together, not only during certain occasions like Christmas or Ramadan, but all through the year, to prove that we are all united in our goals, seeking to give and empower and further be a driving force for positive change in the world.
In the words of Winston S. Churchill, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.”
— The reader is a pupil based in Dubai.
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