Community humanitarian endeavours make a difference at DFWAC

Contributions and donations come in all shapes and sizes as supporters of DFWAC have proven, every little bit counts. It comes in the form of time, art, experience and places. With these great humanitarian endeavours DFWAC is able to continue to strive and grow, protecting women and children affected by domestic violence, human trafficking and child abuse. For all of these efforts DFWAC is very grateful.

Every individual can contribute in their own way, utilizing their own unique skill, and making a difference in the lives of women and children with their support. Some notable individuals that support DFWAC are Helga Bergsteindottir from the Health, Mind, and Body center who teaches classes to empower the women at the foundation, impacting their lives in extraordinary ways. Al Joud Ali Ibrahim (Umm Amna) an art and craft teacher introduced beauty and creativity to the lives of the women and children at DFWAC leaving her unique mark.

Anna Whitehouse used her remarkable baking skills and sold enough baked good to raise substantial funds on behalf of the foundation. Mohammed Somji a respected photographer put a human face to the issue of domestic violence, human trafficking, and child abuse and helped raise awareness through his photographs.

Other contributions that deserve recognition do not merely come from individuals but also from organization in the form of donations. Chuck-E-Cheese donates on a monthly basis a location for the children of DFWAC to celebrate activities and birthday parties. The Grand Hyatt Dubai also contributes their facilities for fundraising events and hotel accommodations; furthermore, on an ongoing basis they provide towels, sheets, toiletries and supplies to the women and children of the foundation. The 'Old Library at Dubai Community Theater and Arts Centre' organizes regular book donations. The Dubai Dolphinarium has donated tickets. Time Out donates time, resources, and fundraising efforts on behalf of the foundation and launched an extraordinary event, Inspire Dubai Awards, celebrating DFWAC accomplishments and donating all proceeds to the Foundation.

Training was another significant avenue of contribution. The British Council provided English classes to the women at DFWAC. The Dubai Community Health Center also made available training and instruction to DFWAC. Other significant supporters were organized by the charity team at the Economic Development Department, Awqaf & Minors Affairs Foundation, and the Hassan Bin Al Shaikh Paper Convert. & Hygienic Disposables & Plastic.

During the Holy month of Ramadan several organizations planned activities for DFWAC. The Women's Association prepared activities such as Arts and Crafts headed by Yasmeen Al Saed. Abdullah Bin Masoud Center also organized Ramadan activities, as well as providing Islamic lessons taught by the manager, Sukaina Al Bloushi (Umm Ahmed). Barclays Bank donated Ramadan goodie boxes for the DFWAC children.

There are a variety of ways to give in this day an age, from big to small, through monetary means, or skills as proven by the spirit of the contributions above. However, what truly matters is making a difference in someone's life.

"DFWAC is positive without the aforementioned individuals, organizations, and government bodies it would not have achieved the successful year it has. DFWAC is able to continue to advocate on behalf of abused women and children, provide emergency shelter, support, and care. With the season ahead from everyone at DFWAC a grateful thank you, a happy holiday season, and a Happy New Year,"

said Afra Al Basti, CEO of Dubai Foundation for Women and Children.