SCI Allocates AED84.3 Million to Domestic Aid Programmes in First Half of 2024
Sharjah, The Gulf Observer: Sharjah Charity International (SCI) has announced the allocation of AED84.3 million to various aid programmes within the UAE during the first half of 2024. This significant contribution includes AED6.7 million for monthly aid, AED31.2 million for seasonal programmes, and AED39.6 million for one-time financial assistance, as reported by the Department of Excellence and Strategic Planning.
Abdullah bin Khadim, Executive Director of SCI, emphasized the organization’s commitment to prioritizing internal aid, which aims to enhance the well-being, stability, and cohesion of families across the country. He highlighted that the one-time aid of AED39.6 million included AED15 million for medical assistance, benefiting 743 patients, particularly those facing life-threatening conditions such as viral hepatitis, cancer, and kidney failure. The aid covered essential medical procedures, including liver transplants, heart surgeries, eye surgeries, caesarean sections, and prosthetic fittings. Bin Khadim noted that SCI relies heavily on charitable donations to support these critical needs.
In addition to medical aid, SCI provided AED8.3 million in housing assistance to 906 beneficiaries. This support included the restoration and maintenance of deteriorating homes, provision of essential appliances and furniture, and the settlement of overdue rent, electricity, and water bills for families struggling with financial hardships.
Educational assistance also formed a key component of SCI’s aid efforts, with AED4.8 million allocated to support students from low-income families. This aid covered tuition fees and provided tablets to over 680 students. Furthermore, SCI facilitated the release of 1,100 individuals from penal and correctional facilities by paying off their debts in cooperation with relevant authorities.
The total cash assistance provided to orphans, widows, divorcees, and those who have lost their livelihood amounted to AED6.7 million during the first half of the year. This aid, typically granted for six months and renewable based on the recipient’s circumstances, aims to help families achieve self-reliance, allowing SCI to extend support to other approved cases.
Bin Khadim also reported that AED31.2 million was distributed as seasonal aid, including through the Ramadan campaign “Joud,” which covered Iftar projects, Ramadan provisions, Zakat Al-Fitr, Zakat Al-Mal, and Eid clothing. The Winter campaign provided winter clothes and heavy blankets to workers, as a gesture of gratitude for their contributions to the nation.
As part of its ongoing “Feeding Food” charitable project, SCI distributed meals to the needy, low-income individuals, and workers across the UAE at a cost of AED3.2 million. This initiative included Iftar for fasting individuals, expiation for missed fasts, fulfilment of oaths and vows, Aqeeqah, and general food distribution to the poor.
Finally, SCI carried out several community participation projects within the UAE, totaling AED3.4 million. These projects were made possible through the support of benefactors, which significantly strengthened partnerships between SCI and other institutions. This collaboration enhanced the quality of services provided to the public by these institutions, particularly those operating within a humanitarian framework aligned with SCI’s goals.
