Al Rawi, Sharjah's contemporary creative hub and book-focused restaurant, last week hosted a charity dinner and auction, in collaboration with The Big Heart Foundation, a Sharjah-based global humanitarian charity dedicated to helping refugees and people in need worldwide, to raise money to feed children in Gaza, Palestine. Hosted by Emirati chef Sahar Parham Al Awadhi, the event, which took place on Saturday, February 8, under the theme of "Reduce Food Waste", was attended by over 200 members of the community, including cultural and social personalities and philanthropists, successfully raising the funds necessary to supply meals for 1,300 children.

The organisers of the event created a diverse cultural programme for guests beginning with a performance by Emirati poet Afra Ateeq, which was followed by live music from Jordanian singer, song-writer and guitarist Dina Stars. The event culminated with the fund-raising auction.

Reflecting on the event, Zhora Qureshi, Manager of Al Rawi, expressed her joy at the success of the event. She also expressed her gratitude to attendees and supporters including the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Bee'ah and the World Food Programme.

Her Excellency Mariam Al Hammadi, Director of The Big Heart Foundation, thanked those who attended the event and supported the initiative saying: “The attendance, support and contributions of our distinguished guests will have a tremendous impact on our aim of enhancing the level of food security for many children, including those with special needs, in Gaza, Palestine.”

“The cooperation between Al Rawi, Emirati chef Sahar Parham Al Awadhi and our guests contributed to the success of this initiative which reflects the UAE’s consistent support for noble humanitarian causes and embodies the vision of the Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and President of The Big Heart Foundation, to help those who are in need, especially children.” She added.

The Big Heart Foundation was established in 2015 and works to support and protect the most vulnerable. Through a variety of initiatives and campaigns launched by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, the foundation aims to empower those in need and help them create

better lives for themselves. It also aims to protect children in need, and support and empower their families. Whilst the foundation's efforts are predominantly focused within the Arab world, it does provide support to the affected places all around the world.