Underprivileged Families and Children Collaborate to Prepare School Supplies for the Needy

Dubai Immigration Authority Launches Community-Driven "Back to School" Initiative

Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs has partnered with Union Cooperative to launch an innovative volunteer program that engages families and children in preparing school supplies for underprivileged students. The initiative, timed with the approaching school season, demonstrates how government agencies can foster civic responsibility while addressing educational inequality through hands-on community involvement.

Hands-On Volunteering Creates Lasting Impact

The program established dedicated stations where volunteer families and children work together to fill school bags with essential supplies for students in need. This approach transforms traditional charity distribution into an interactive experience that builds social awareness among participants while directly serving the community.

The initiative has already reached 200 students affiliated with Bait Al Khair Society, providing them with the tools necessary for academic success as the new school year begins.

Building Tomorrow's Philanthropic Leaders

By involving children in the volunteer process, the program addresses a critical gap in civic education. Rather than simply donating money or goods, families participate in the actual preparation and distribution, creating memorable experiences that shape long-term attitudes toward community service.

"We take pride in collaborating with Dubai Immigration in an initiative that gives children and families the opportunity to experience hands-on volunteering that enhances their social awareness and deepens their sense of responsibility," said Mohammed Al Hashemi, CEO of Union Cooperative. "This practical participation helps instill a culture of giving from an early age."

Government-Private Sector Collaboration Model

The partnership between Dubai's immigration authority and Union Cooperative represents a growing trend in the UAE where government agencies leverage private sector resources and networks to amplify social impact. This model allows for more efficient resource allocation while expanding the reach of community programs.

Colonel Salem Mohammed bin Ali, Acting Assistant Director General of the Leadership and Future Sector, emphasized the initiative's alignment with Dubai's broader vision: "This initiative embodies Dubai Immigration's vision that humanitarian and volunteer work is a fundamental pillar for building a cohesive society. Involving children and families in such activities reinforces positive values and creates generations that understand the importance of giving."

Addressing Educational Equity Through Community Action

The timing of the initiative highlights the persistent challenge of educational access and equity, even in prosperous cities like Dubai. By focusing on school supplies—often overlooked but essential components of academic success—the program tackles a practical barrier that can significantly impact student performance and attendance.

This grassroots approach to addressing educational inequality demonstrates how targeted, community-driven initiatives can complement broader government education policies and spending, creating a more comprehensive support system for vulnerable families.