Church reaches out to over 6,000 underprivileged workers

DUBAI: Challenging and uncertain times call for compassion and generosity. St Mary’s Church in Dubai is doing just that through its ‘ Meals of Grace’ initiative. Launched in April this year in response to the pandemic, the parish has been able to reach out to over 6,000 underprivileged workers and families.

In addition, the parish offered support to a camp of 280 distressed workers with hot dinners and dry rations.

An enthusiastic Father Lennie J. A. Connully (OFM Cap), Parish Priest of the Church said, ‘Charity is at the heart of Christian beliefs and we are doing all we can to support those vulnerable people during this crisis. Proper nutrition is absolutely vital at a challenging time like this and we are delighted that we can provide this service. Through this initiative we were also able to assist with the repatriation of several needy workers who have been stranded without jobs or means of survival.’

‘We are grateful to our main sponsor West Zone Supermarket and many others who have contributed towards the cause. This initiative would not be possible without their efforts. We are also thankful to the Community Development Authority and the Government of Dubai for their unstinted support’ Father Connully added.

Deeds like this demonstrate that Dubai is a good example of communities coming to together in challenging times. It also reassures underprivileged members of our society that they are not alone. Acts like these all contribute in their own special way to the national effort of creating a society that is considerate and caring.

Meanwhile, Dar Al Ber Society concluded its participation in ‘ Dubai Design Week’, which was held in the Dubai Design District, within the charity area of the exhibition. The Society promoted awareness of its various charitable and humanitarian projects, and the initiatives that it implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Dar Al Ber stand witnessed a wide turnout, where a large number of exhibition goers visited, resulting in a fruiful and successful participation. Representatives of the Society gave an extensive and comprehensive explanation of the charitable projects conducted during the current global crisis and highlighted its positive results.

Their implementation helped the poor, needy and those with low income, the limited and vulnerable segments of society, and the victims of the global pandemic, who are affected by its negative repercussions. It also aided those who have lost their jobs and sources of income and who have been stranded and unable to return to their countries and well as other groups.