‘Together We Are Good’ impacts 400,000

ABU DHABI: World Business Times has recognised the ‘Together We Are Good’ programme, launched by the Authority of Social Contribution - Ma’an, as a leading initiative in bringing the community together and embodies the principles of human fraternity.

The programme positively impacted more than 400,000 beneficiaries in Abu Dhabi, according to a report published today by the global communications company.

The special report ‘Abu Dhabi COVID-19 Relief Efforts – Symbolising the Principles of Human Fraternity’ analysed how a set of nine selected countries considered leaders in the world of giving and charity, addressed the challenges of social relief posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Benchmarked against eight other countries’ responses to the COVID-19 pandemic, the report provided greater insight of how Ma’an acted decisively to bring communities together through financial and in-kind contributions, working on increasing social participation and channelling funds across four key pillars: education, health, food and basic needs.

With more than Dhs439 million in financial contributions, ‘Together We Are Good’ was benchmarked top three in terms of funds raised (equivalent of $120 million) behind Kuwait and Canada. Altogether, more than Dhs1 billion was raised including in-kind contributions.

The programme was also placed second for average funds raised per capita ($41 per person), behind Bahrain and level with Kuwait, while ranking first for contributions from private donors.

The report recognised that ‘Together We Are Good’ made two unique contributions compared to all other countries. First, it was the only fund in the education sector to support the payment of tuition fees for students whose parents were struggling to pay as a result of the crisis. Second, it was also the only fund in the health sector to support frontline workers to protect their families by providing them with accommodation in hotels.

Vesna Obradovic, Managing Director at World Business Times, said, “Following the WHO’S announcement of the rapidly developing coronavirus situation around the world, Abu Dhabi was notable among governments in that it quickly mobilised its resources to fight the virus and provide economic relief where it was needed.”