Dubai Land Department (DLD) has held a coordination meeting for its annual charity campaign, ‘Why Do You Keep It?’, which is being launched on May 11. The aim of the forum, which was held at DLD headquarters, was to discuss all matters relating to the week-long initiative, including the conditions and requirements needed to ensure that it is a resounding success.
"We would like to encourage all government departments workers, the employees in the other agencies involved and the general public, to donate things that they no longer need in support of Why Do You Keep It?, which aims to help alleviate suffering in UAE society,” said Majida Ali Rashid, Assistant Director General, DLD. “We have made every effort to promote this year's campaign, including sending invitations to a large number of government departments, as well as private organisations, to ensure the highest degree of support at all levels," she added.
The Why Do You Keep It? planning meeting was attended by 20 delegates representing various government institutions and bodies, including the Ministry of State for the Federal National Council, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, RTA, Dubai Customs, Department of Economic Development, Directorate General of Civil Defence and Sector Service Centers of Foreign Affairs. Invitations were also sent to public organisations, sports clubs and charities, including Emirates Human Rights Association, Al Wasl Sports Club, Dubai Charity Association, Ehsan Charity Association, Make a Wish Foundation, Dubai Healthcare City and Al Maktoum Airport. The delegates attending representing private companies expressed their willingness to promote and support the activity.
During the meeting, the coordinators were introduced to each other and presented with a detailed overview of the initiative, with participants also given a platform to propose a number of well-received ideas. DLD stressed that commitment and cooperation from all parties would be needed to ensure the success of the campaign and concluded the forum by thanking the participants for their support.
"DLD prides itself on launching innovative initiatives that emphasise social responsibility and help it consolidate its relations with all segments of society. Why Do You Keep It? has grown from strength to strength since its inception and we are anticipating an overwhelming response again this year,” added Majida Ali Rashid.
DLD’s inaugural Why Do You Keep It? campaign took place in 2008 and was held in collaboration with one other party. It has grown considerably in the six years since, with 23 entities involved last year and the number of items donated reaching 700. All articles and items received during the initiative are redistributed to those in Dubai who are most in need.
Articles being accepted during this year’s Why Do You Keep It? campaign include clothing, household articles, kitchen utensils, small home furnishing items, leather products, shoes, bags and electrical appliances. Donors can also provide food, sanitary products and any other goods that can be used for daily needs. DLD is appealing to all donors to ensure that any material they give is in good order and usable condition.