Sharjah: The Sharjah Social Empowerment Foundation held its annual meeting in the presence of Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services, where she reviewed the key statistics and outcomes of programmes and projects achieved during 2024.
According to Emirates News Agency, these efforts contributed to supporting 2,769 orphans and 1,186 families across Sharjah and its affiliated regions, in addition to empowering 170 newly enrolled orphans, bringing the total number of empowered children by year-end to 2,035. Al Qasimi expressed her appreciation for the efforts exerted by the Sharjah Social Empowerment Foundation, underscoring the importance of sustaining humanitarian work that enhances the quality of life for orphans. She emphasized that the Foundation's achievements are success stories that inspire continued giving, with a focus on capacity building and boosting self-confidence.
For her part, Mona bin Hadda Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the Foundation, expressed her gratitude for the presence of Sheikha Jameela at the meeting, affirming that the achievements reflect the Foundation's vision to empower children and their families. She highlighted the Foundation's participation in international events such as the United Nations' Summit of the Future and its recognition with the Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd Award for Best Charity Performance in the Arab World. Al Suwaidi credited these accomplishments to an effective strategy and the continuous support of leadership and partners.
The Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to global quality standards and maintained its ISO9001:2015 Quality Management System certification, ensuring best practices in service delivery. In 2024, the total expenditures provided to families amounted to approximately AED27 million, benefiting 1,169 families and 2,744 children through zakat funds and Ramadan provisions.
The 'Iftar Project' supported 248 families and 772 children with meal vouchers, and the 'Eid Sweets' project reached 199 families and 515 children. Additionally, 327 children received 'Eidiya' as part of the Eid gift project. Sponsorship projects included the support of 331 orphans and 226 families, while urgent financial support exceeded AED2 million through the 'Jabr' (Relief) project.
Educational support was also a priority, with 585 education sponsorships, raising the total number of sponsored students to 1,913. The 'Sidrat Al-Amani' (Tree of Wishes) project fulfilled 277 wishes, and 1,058 students benefited from tuition fee payments. The Foundation awarded eight university scholarships and organized 10 Umrah trips for beneficiaries.
Social empowerment was enhanced through services supporting 146 children and 59 guardians, and the 'Sanad Al-Bayt' (Home Support) project served 85 young men, 84 girls, and 69 guardians. Psychological support benefited 279 children and 84 guardians, while environmental aid worth nearly AED2 million addressed the needs of orphan families.
The Foundation also focused on job-readiness, training 38 participants and conducting vocational workshops. These comprehensive efforts reflect the Foundation's dedication to improving the lives of orphans and their families in Sharjah.
