Dubai: A new academic year has begun on a heartwarming note for young students in Dubai, thanks to a unique community-driven initiative that blends compassion with education. As part of the “Year of Community” campaign, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA-Dubai), in collaboration with Union Coop, launched the “Back to School” initiative to support children from underprivileged families.
What makes this initiative truly remarkable is the direct involvement of children and families. At a specially designated corner, young volunteers, along with their parents, personally packed school bags filled with essential learning supplies. These “bags of love” were then delivered through the Beit Al Khair Society to 200 students from low-income households. Beyond being a charitable act, the experience instilled in children a sense of social responsibility and empathy.
“Our goal is to teach children the value of giving and sharing from a young age,” said Union Coop CEO Mohammed Al Hashimi. “When they step forward to extend a helping hand, they understand the importance of standing together as a community. We are proud to be part of this noble collaboration.”
Lieutenant Colonel Salim Mohammed Bin Ali from GDRFA-Dubai added: “Humanitarian initiatives and volunteerism are what truly unite a society. Through this effort, we are reinforcing Dubai’s values of solidarity, compassion, and humanity. This initiative is far greater than just distributing school bags to 200 students—it is about reminding us how far a community can rise when it helps and shares with one another.”
The Back to School project stands as a symbol of generosity and collective spirit, ensuring that children start the school year not only with the tools for learning but also with a deeper lesson in kindness and unity.
