The foundation's efforts align with its strategic goals and ambitious vision for sustainable empowerment of orphans and their families. This year, the foundation launched pioneering programmes and projects in orphan care, benefiting 2,736 orphans and 1,152 families in Sharjah and its surrounding areas. Additionally, 87 orphans were empowered, bringing the total number of supported children to 1,865 by the end of the year.
Sustainable Empowerment
Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi remarked: “From the beginning, the Foundation has consistently achieved significant milestones that align with a comprehensive vision, supporting the sustainable development of the Emirate of Sharjah. We commend its pioneering efforts in serving orphans, continually improving performance, overcoming challenges, and implementing constructive initiatives and projects. These efforts aim to enhance institutional performance in serving orphan families, maximising opportunities for their advancement and support at all levels of empowerment. The services and projects provided have had a clear impact on the future of these individuals, preserving their dignity and helping them become inspiring members of a cohesive societal fabric, contributing actively to society.”
Sublime Care for Orphans
Mona bin Hadda Al Suwaidi, Director General of the SSEF, stated: “With these achievements, we are laying the groundwork for future plans to continue empowering and supporting orphan families. Our wise leadership, inspired by the visionary directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has guided us in establishing standards that serve humanity in the emirate. These achievements and success stories result from joint efforts with the community to integrate energies and advance programmes aimed at empowering our members and achieving social well-being for the beneficiaries. We are committed to investing in innovative ideas and efforts to ensure a better future for these families through targeted programmes and projects.”
Notable Achievements
The SSEF's efforts were highlighted by obtaining the ISO 9001:2015 certification for the Quality Management System, meeting all necessary standards and requirements. This achievement underscores the Foundation's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for orphans and their families, supporting Sharjah's goal of becoming a nurturing environment for orphans. Additionally, the Foundation received the International Excellence Award in Orphan Care in 2023 at the Fourth International Conference on Orphan Care in Bahrain. This honour recognises the Foundation's exceptional efforts in caring for orphans and its distinguished role in providing comprehensive programmes for orphan families.
Empowering families
The Foundation has allocated more than 23 million dirhams in its expenses towards orphans and their families in 2023, fully allocated to finance all empowerment programmes and projects that support them throughout the year.
Economic empowerment of families
The economic empowerment programmes presented witnessed a package of supportive projects that met the requirements of comprehensive care for orphan families and were harnessed to achieve an effective response to all their different needs, and included many projects, most notably:
"Zakki" Projects for Ramadan and Eid
During Ramadan, 2,730 orphans benefited from zakat funds and Ramadan supplies, while the "Give them iftar" project supported over 1,672 orphans and 689 guardians. This project saw participation from various hotels, restaurants, and community members who provided meal vouchers to orphaned families, fostering social solidarity. Additionally, 903 families received "Eid sweets" during Eid Al Adha, bringing joy to orphan families. The Foundation also supported 676 orphans through the "Eidiya" project, distributing gifts before Eid Al Adha to enhance their festive celebrations.
Kafala and Support Projects
By the end of the year, the "Orphan Sponsor" and “Family Sponsor” projects had provided support for 1,788 orphans and 567 families. This initiative aims to improve their quality of life, ensuring stability and economic empowerment for the families under the Foundation's care.
"Jabr" .. alleviating orphans’ suffering
The "Jabr" project alleviated the distress and suffering of 260 guardians and 627 orphans by providing urgent support to needy orphan families. This included paying rent arrears, covering accumulated electricity bills, and supplying essential appliances. Additionally, the project offered health support by covering treatment costs, surgical operations, and other emergencies that families could not manage on their own.
Cooperation Agreement
The Foundation signed a joint cooperation agreement with El Taweela Livestock Trading Establishment, which operates the " Our farms are halal " application. This agreement facilitates the donation of Udhiyah, meat, and food supplies through the app, benefiting the Foundation’s low-income and needy orphan families. Through these smart services, 303 families and 721 orphans have been supported by donations from benefactors.
Fulfilling orphans' wishes
The Foundation continued its mission to bring joy to orphans through the "Sidrat Al-Umniyat" project, fulfilling the wishes of 271 orphans this year. Since its launch in 2016, the project has made 3,389 wishes come true, turning the dreams of orphans into reality with strong support from the community.
Academic support for orphans
The “Allama bil qalam" project successfully supported the education of 1,700 orphan students this year, with a total of 1,763 students benefiting since its launch in 2018.
The project's educational support includes paying tuition fees, providing educational equipment, supporting university education, honouring outstanding high school students, and enhancing learning through remedial lessons and development courses. Additionally, the project offers assistance to students with learning difficulties, ensuring they overcome challenges and achieve academic success.
Psychological and social support
The psychological empowerment programmes offered counseling and psychological services to 30 guardians and 85 orphans. These services, including the Rawaa programme, coaching sessions, therapeutic services, and behaviour modification programmes, aimed to provide support and guidance.
In the social empowerment programme, social services were extended to 108 guardians and 309 orphans. This included social training programmes and workshops that benefited 94 guardians and 60 orphans. The diverse range of programmes included community integration initiatives, directed activities, the friendly people programme, and support groups, fostering a supportive environment for all beneficiaries.
"Sanad Al Bayt" Youth Project.. Strengthening Family Support
For the second consecutive year, the "Sanad Al Bayt" youth project continues its mission to enhance the skills of young individuals within the social and community institution. The project aims to empower and assist orphans and mothers in facing life's challenges with awareness and determination. Through specialized workshops and training sessions, which involved 188 participants, including children and guardians, the project strives to instill leadership principles in every participant. The ultimate goal is to cultivate active and influential roles within their families and society, fostering a supportive environment for all involved.
Health empowerment initiatives
The Foundation extended health support to 36 orphans and 25 guardians, aiming to address their health needs effectively. Additionally, it organized free comprehensive examinations for families associated with the Foundation, benefiting 100 guardians and 140 orphans. Moreover, 96 guardians and 36 orphans participated in a series of awareness courses designed to enhance their understanding of health-related matters and promote overall well-being.
Enhancing the environment
The Foundation extended environmental assistance to meet the needs of 110 families and 305 orphans. The "Judran" project focused on providing essential maintenance for the homes of 8 families and 25 orphans, emphasising the importance of family stability. Environmental programmes were also offered to 24 guardians and 33 orphans.
Promising professional futures for orphans
The Foundation facilitated the enrollment of 46 children in a training and career development program across 5 governmental and private agencies, providing them with practical experience and essential skills for future employment. Additionally, 11 professional workshops and courses were conducted, benefiting 152 orphans and 148 guardians, aimed at enhancing their creative skills in various professional fields.
A Journey of success
The Foundation's achievements reflect a comprehensive humanitarian vision committed to the sustainable empowerment of orphan families. These accomplishments underscore the dedication and noble efforts of its members, highlighting the Foundation's pioneering role in fostering social well-being and empowering its members. Through its inherent humanitarian values, the Foundation continues to serve and care for orphans, making strides in achieving its mission.
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