DUBAI: The essence of Ramadan is in full swing at the Pakistan Association Dubai, which is continuing its welfare activities in the holy month.
Keeping up with its tradition, the PAD Welfare Committee is running several initiatives to serve the deserving members of the community.
PAD Welfare Committee head Faisal Sunka said: “Though our welfare efforts continue throughout the year, they are at their peak in the month of Ramadan.
“We are pleased to share that so far we have distributed 1,000 plus food cards among deserving families. We have also been providing Iftar at the local Pakistani mosque in Oud Metha and have been able to serve 2,100 plus individuals. PAD is also organising an Eid gift distribution ceremony for deserving families.
“These activities, ensure that members of our community in need are provided essential supplies and meals throughout the holy month and for Eid.
“The PAD welfare team is also working with Dubai Police and Pakistan Consulate to repatriate prisoners and allow them to reunite with their families. So far 140 prisoners have been repatriated. We are grateful to Dubai Police and Pakistan Consulate for their support.”
Faisal Sunka said that PAD’s welfare efforts will extend beyond Ramadan as “our team proactively works all year round to support our people in every way possible”.
He added: “Our incredible network of volunteers helps us extend welfare services in special areas such as education and legal advice. These services help us with our efforts in making education and legal support accessible to the segment of our community who can’t afford these otherwise. The PAD welfare team selects the deserving cases through a robust screening process.
“Pakistan Medical Centre (PMC) is providing medical care of the highest standards to the deserving of the community. In 2022, approximately 50 percent of the patients at PMC were served for free as part of our medical welfare services.
“In order to raise funds for the project we concluded a successful online art auction last weekend which sold over 45 artworks to raise proceeds for PMC. The Online Art Auction is organised every year in collaboration with Poetic Strokes.
“PAD is able to serve the deserving through ever-growing support of our community who contribute to our cause in huge numbers. Our gratitude goes out to all who have supported our endeavours in the past and continue doing so with full empathy and fervour.
“As public service remains a priority, our growing welfare activities always need your support to ensure the long-term sustainability and in achieving our goal of promoting social welfare and inclusivity.
“Along with our donors and supporters, PAD also remains thankful to the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities and the Community Development Authority (CDA) for constantly facilitating our mission.”
Faisal Sunka said that in a bid to expand PAD’s reach and cater to more deserving groups, it is hopeful of widespread and continuous community support to sustain its goal of promoting social welfare and inclusivity.
