Latest news with #BigHeartFoundation
The National
3 days ago
- General
- The National
Hospital emergency unit destroyed in Beirut blast reopens after Dh8.7 million UAE donation
The emergency and trauma unit at a Lebanese hospital that was destroyed in the 2020 Beirut port blast is ready to welcome patients again, thanks to a major UAE donation. The Big Heart Foundation, a global humanitarian organisation based in Sharjah, contributed Dh8.7 million ($2.36 million) to reconstruct and expand the facility at the 147-year-old Saint George Hospital University Medical Centre in Lebanon's capital. The hospital is about half a kilometre from the port and bore the brunt of the devastating explosion, which killed more than 200 people and left thousands injured. Four members of the hospital's nursing staff died, as well as 12 patients and a visitor. More than 100 doctors, nurses and administrative staff suffered injuries ranging from mild to critical, according to the hospital's website. The upgraded unit reopened on Tuesday. It has state-of-the-art medical equipment, expanded capacity, enhanced trauma-care facilities, and a new paediatric section. It is expected to serve 40,000 patients per year. Its inauguration has enabled the hospital to operate at full capacity for the first time since the disaster on August 4, 2020. Beirut blast aftermath – in pictures The crucial funding was made possible by the Salam Beirut campaign, which raised more than Dh30 million for recovery work following the explosion. At the inauguration ceremony, Alya Al Musaiebi, director of The Big Heart Foundation, reaffirmed Sharjah's long-standing friendship with Lebanon and praised the strength of its people. 'The reconstructed and expanded [centre] symbolises our belief that humanitarian work must be meaningful, long-term, and grounded in the dignity of those we serve,' she said. 'The devastation caused by the Port of Beirut explosion was not just structural – it was deeply human, and our response through Salam Beirut was committed to investing in systems that give people back not just services, but stability and self-worth.' Dr Joseph Wehbe, chief of staff and head of the emergency and trauma centre, said: 'The rehabilitation, restoration and expansion of the emergency and trauma unit marks a moment of great pride for everyone at Saint George University Hospital. 'The hospital was among the most severely affected institutions by the tragic explosion that rocked the Port of Beirut, resulting in a complete shutdown for the first time since its founding in 1878. 'Despite the magnitude of the disaster, our determination never wavered. Through the dedication and perseverance of our medical and administrative teams, we managed to resume operations via a temporary emergency unit within a record time of just two weeks.'
Khaleej Times
3 days ago
- General
- Khaleej Times
'Sharjah's love and solidarity': 147-year-old hospital destroyed in Beirut blast fully rebuilt
The emergency and trauma (ERT) centre of a 147-year-old hospital in Lebanon that was destroyed in the 2020 Port Beirut blast has been fully reconstructed, thanks to the Dh8.7 million contribution from The Big Heart Foundation's (TBHF) 'Salam Beirut' campaign. The new ERT unit at the Saint George Hospital University Medical Centre (SGHUMC) now features a new paediatric section that can treat up to 40,000 patients annually, Sharjah-based humanitarian organisation TBHF announced on Wednesday. 'The reconstructed unit now boasts state-of-the-art medical equipment, expanded capacity, enhanced trauma care facilities – enabling SGHUMC to operate at full capacity for the first time since the blast. The facility is a significant step forward in strengthening Beirut's healthcare capabilities,' TBHF said in a statement sent to Khaleej Times. 'This initiative carries a message of love and solidarity from Sharjah, under the leadership of Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi, and our chairperson, Sheikha Jawaher, to the people of Lebanon who have always faced adversity with resilience and pride. This project symbolises our belief that humanitarian work must be meaningful, long-term, and grounded in the dignity of those we serve.,' noted TBHR director Alya Al Musaiebi. 'The devastation caused by the Port of Beirut explosion was not just structural—it was deeply human, and our response through 'Salam Beirut' was committed to investing in systems that give people back not just services, but stability and self-worth,' she added. The mega-blast that tore through Lebanon's capital on August 4, 2020 killed more than 150 people and displaced nearly 300,000 residents. It resulted from the ignition of a huge depot of ammonium nitrate at Beirut's port. 'The hospital was among the most severely affected institutions by the tragic explosion that rocked the Port of Beirut, resulting in a complete shutdown for the first time since its founding in 1878,' said Dr. Joseph Wehbe, chief of staff and head of emergency and trauma centre at SGHUMC. 'Despite the magnitude of the disaster, our determination never wavered. Through the dedication and perseverance of our medical and administrative teams, we managed to resume operations via a temporary emergency unit within a record time of just two weeks,' he recalled. 'Now, the rehabilitation, restoration, and expansion of the trauma unit marks a moment of great pride for everyone at the hospital. This project is not merely about rebuilding a medical facility; it represents a noble humanitarian message and restores hope to the people of Beirut,' he added.
Sharjah 24
12-05-2025
- Health
- Sharjah 24
Nursing, volunteering foundational elements of community service
Fatima Musa Al Belushi, who is the Executive Director of the Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work, emphasized that being a nurse is much more than just a job; it's a valuable calling that embodies care and dedication. She praised nurses for their vital contributions through volunteering, which helps improve our quality of life and promotes better health in communities. Al Belushi pointed out that nurses often lead the way in social and humanitarian efforts. They use their skills and dedication to provide care to those in need, whether in everyday situations or during emergencies like natural disasters or health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. She also highlighted the presence of specialized volunteer groups in the UAE, like the "Sand" team from the Emirates Foundation and the "Response" team from the Emirates Red Crescent, which demonstrate the country's commitment to providing humanitarian aid both locally and around the world. Along with this, she mentioned the Sheikha Fatima Global Humanitarian Campaign and efforts from the Big Heart Foundation. Al Belushi stressed that supporting and developing the nursing profession and encouraging nurses to participate in volunteer activities are crucial for building a strong and reliable healthcare system. celebrating International Nurses Day is a way of showing deep appreciation for the nurses, who are essential to our healthcare system and society as a whole.
Gulf Today
20-03-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Sharjah's Big Heart calls for helping 20,000 orphan children in Gaza
The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF) has launched a renewed call to action, urging individuals and institutions to unite efforts for the 'For Gaza' campaign. In partnership with the Palestinian Taawon Welfare Association, the initiative provides long-term support for over 20,000 orphaned children in Gaza, ensuring access to education, healthcare, psychological aid, and essential needs. This message was reinforced at a charity Suhoor held on Monday evening at the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park, bringing together philanthropists, business leaders, and humanitarian organisations to mobilise resources and advocate for sustained support. A panel discussion under way. The event featured panel discussions and keynote speeches highlighting the power of collaborative action in addressing the crisis. An art exhibition by University of Sharjah students further strengthened the campaign, raising Dhs90,000 to support Gaza's orphaned children. Goodness never stops, and solidarity remains unbreakable The Suhoor began with a speech by Alya Obaid Al Musaiebi, Director of TBHF, who highlighted that the "Salam Ya Seghar" campaign, launched 17 years ago, was the first initiative introduced by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of TBHF. This campaign laid the foundation for a lasting humanitarian commitment to Palestinian children: "Today, this commitment remains strong, reflected in real, tangible actions that restore hope to every child who has lost their family and dreams amidst the devastation of war and suffering." An art exhibition by University of Sharjah students raised Dhs90,000 for Gaza's children. Al Musaiebi added: "What distinguishes TBHF is its policy of not deducting administrative fees from donations or Zakat funds. We believe that every dirham contributed by generous donors should reach those in need in its entirety... We firmly believe that every contribution, no matter how modest, carries within it the promise of a new beginning for a child awaiting a glimmer of hope. More importantly, it sends a powerful message to the world that, as individuals and institutions, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most." Effective Development and Humanitarian Programmes: On his part, Dr Tareq Emtairah, Director General of Taawon Welfare Association, highlighted the organisation's vital role in implementing these initiatives in Gaza and ensuring that donations reach beneficiaries efficiently and transparently. He stressed that the partnership with TBHF serves as a leading model for unifying humanitarian efforts to create a sustainable and meaningful impact in supporting orphans in Gaza. 5 He said: "Drawing on our extensive experience in implementing effective development and humanitarian programmes, we at Taawon have developed the 'Noor' programme, a comprehensive initiative to support orphans in Gaza, which builds on our past experiences with the 'Wajd' and 'Mustaqbali' initiatives in 2009 and 2014." Strong collaboration to support humanitarian efforts: The event welcomed Hind Al Huwaidi, Chief Development Officer at BEEAH Group, who highlighted the strategic role of the private sector in supporting humanitarian efforts and ensuring the sustainability of development initiatives. She emphasised that collaboration between charitable organisations and businesses serves as an effective model for unifying efforts and expanding impact, ultimately contributing to sustainable community development and a stronger response to the most pressing humanitarian needs. Panel discussion highlights the campaign and donation options As part of the charity Suhoor, TBHF organised a panel discussion titled 'For Gaza: Towards a Sustainable Future.' The session featured Mariam Al Sarkal, Head of Partnerships at TBHF, and the Director-General of Taawon, moderated by Tarek Sakik, content creator and founder of the Takhayaal podcast. The discussion explored the role of the For Gaza campaign in supporting orphans in Gaza and the mechanisms for efficiently and transparently distributing donations. It also reaffirmed the campaign's long-term commitment to orphan care while emphasising the importance of partnering with Taawon to implement support programmes effectively. Donation channels and options The For Gaza campaign offers various donation options, allowing individuals and companies to support orphans in Gaza. One month of sponsorship is available for Dhs625, one year sponsorship for Dhs7,500, a five-year sponsorship for Dhs37,500, and a ten-year sponsorship for Dhs75,000. Additionally, the campaign includes the Eid Clothing Initiative, enabling donors to bring joy to orphaned children by contributing Dhs200. To facilitate participation, the campaign provides several donation channels, including bank transfers via Sharjah Islamic Bank (Account: 0011-430430-002), cheque payments to The Big Heart Foundation headquarters, cash donations at TBHF offices, online contributions via or SMS donations or via +971505350152.
The National
19-03-2025
- General
- The National
UAE organisation aims to help support 20,000 orphans in Gaza
Live updates: Follow the latest on Israel-Gaza A UAE organisation has launched a programme aiming to help provide long-term support for 20,000 orphans in Gaza. The Big Heart Foundation is asking residents and companies to support a Palestinian orphan by donating from Dh625 per month up to Dh75,000 for 10 years of assistance through its 'For Gaza' scheme. Donors can commit to monthly, annual, five-year or 10-year payments under a structured sponsorship model. The details were revealed during a charity suhoor held at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park on Monday, in the presence of philanthropists, business leaders and representatives from the humanitarian sector. The programme is part of the Palestinian Taawon Welfare Association's Noor campaign, which aims to raise $377 million to provide access to education, health care, psychological support and other essential services for orphaned children in Gaza. 'Our approach is rooted in sustainability. We do not deduct administrative fees from donations, ensuring that every dirham reaches those in need,' said Alya Al Musaiebi, director of the foundation. 'This is a testament to our values and our promise to the generous donors who believe in this cause, to restore hope to children who lost their families and dreams amid the war and suffering.' Children will receive not just financial aid, but structured support that fosters stability, education and psychological well-being. An Eid Clothing Initiative is also part of the campaign, enabling donors to contribute Dh200 to provide new clothes for orphans, ensuring they can celebrate with dignity and joy. Taawon's expertise, built through decades of experience in Gaza, ensures that aid reaches those in need efficiently and transparently. 'Building on our experience in development and humanitarian programmes, we have structured the Noor initiative to support Gaza's orphans comprehensively,' said Dr Tareq Emtairah, director general of Taawon. 'With the foundation as a strategic partner, we are scaling our efforts to provide long-term stability, ensuring that these children not only survive but thrive.' In October 2024, the UN children's agency Unicef estimated there were up to 18,000 orphans in the Gaza Strip after more than a year of fighting between Israel and Hamas, many of them without any family members. The For Gaza campaign calls upon philanthropists, businesses, civil society and individuals to take part in shaping a better future for them. Donors can contribute through bank transfer to Sharjah Islamic Bank, cheque payments to the foundation headquarters, cash donations, online contributions or by SMS. Support one orphan for Dh625 for a month, Dh7,500 for a year, Dh37,000 for five years and Dh75,000 for 10 years.
