Small change can make big difference

Mariam Al Roumi, UAE Minister of Social Affairs, and Nasser Al Sha'ali, CEO of the DIFC Authority, during the launch of the "Dirham Wa Bas" campaign.

Small change can make big difference
Staff Report GULF NEWS Published: August 20, 2008, 23:44

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

* Donation boxes will be placed in shopping malls, Emarat petrol stations and retail stores.
* The public are being invited to donate as little as Dh1.
* The elderly, disabled and those on limited incomes are set to benefit from the donations, via the Social Responsibility Fund.
* The campaign was launched yesterday and will run until December.