UAE: 'Iftar on Wheels' to distribute thousands of Ramadan food boxes
Ramadan food kits are set to be donated to thousands of needy across the UAE under Amazon's annual 'Iftar on Wheels' programme that kicked off on Monday.
The food kits will have essentials like rice, flour, sugar, oil, tea, pasta, dates, and milk powder.
The preparation for the initiative, which is being held in collaboration with UAE Bank, began Thursday (February 26), just two days before Ramadan, when around 60 Amazon employees sporting their orange volunteer shirts gathered to pack food kits. Only this time, they weren't for customers but for people in need.
Stefano Martinelli, Vice-President of Amazon Middle East and North Africa, who also joined the employees in packing food kits, underlined the campaign's goal.
"During Ramadan, our food donation programme aims to assist families in need. We collaborate with local food banks across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, allowing our employees to engage in meaningful volunteer activities.'
Reflecting on the campaign's growth over the years, he added, 'This is our fifth year running the campaign, and it started small but has grown tremendously. We've donated 1.4 million meals and 230,000kg of food.'
Over the past four years, Amazon's 'Iftar on Wheels' has reached more than 37,000 beneficiaries across the country.
Martinelli further elaborated on the importance of community partnerships and distribution logistics, saying, 'We leverage the expertise of food banks to ensure that our donations reach the families who need them most. This collaboration is vital because food banks understand the local context and can target their efforts effectively.'
Martinelli also expressed pride in Amazon's commitment to social responsibility. 'At Amazon, we believe in contributing positively to the communities we operate in. Our employees are not just here to work; they are here to make a difference. Initiatives like this one help foster a culture of giving and unity, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.' As he participated in the packing, he remarked, 'It's rewarding to be hands-on in this initiative. Each box we prepare represents hope and support for families in need, and that's what Ramadan is all about—sharing, caring, and coming together.'
Manal Obaid Bin Yaroof, Head of the Executive Team of the UAE Food Bank Foundation, said: 'We are thrilled to partner with Amazon. This cooperation greatly enhances community spirit and volunteerism, especially during Ramadan.'
'This is our fifth year working together, and we've expanded our operations and the number of beneficiaries significantly.'
When asked about the distribution process, she explained, 'We prioritise the safety of the food and identify deserving families for assistance. Over the years, we've seen a rise in volunteer participation, reflecting the initiative's positive impact on the community. We strive to raise awareness about the importance of volunteering and community involvement."
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