One Billion Meals Endowment raises Dh247m in first week

The One Billion Meals Endowment campaign has raised Dh247 million ($67.2 million) in its first week.

Launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, the initiative started on the first day of Ramadan and will continue until its target is met.

The campaign has received donations from 13,220 major contributors, people and businesses in the public and private sectors, state news agency Wam reported yesterday.

Organised by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, the campaign is different to previous initiatives introduced during the holy month.

Instead of donations being spent directly on food parcels, they will go into endowment funds, from which the financial returns will be used to feed those in need.

The aim is to ensure the principal sum steadily increases, allowing vital aid to be delivered for years to come.

Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Secretary General of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, said the campaign reflected Sheikh Mohammed’s vision for “sustaining charitable efforts, opening the door for everyone hoping to make a lasting impact”.

“On the other hand, the remarkable response we see across the UAE community is a reflection of its long-held values of giving and generosity, and a testament to its moral sense of responsibility towards the global efforts to eradicate hunger around the world,” Mr Al Gergawi said.

“The campaign paves the way for a new concept of charitable work that is sustainable and impactful in a way that meets the specific needs of underprivileged populations.

“The food aid endowment fund created under the campaign is a key milestone in UAE humanitarian efforts.”

The campaign website has details of several ways for people to make donations.

Money can be pledged online, either in monthly instalments or as a one-off donation.

Donations can be made by text message, through the Dubai Now app, or by bank transfer. Those who wish to make large donations can contact the campaign on 800 9999.