Dubai, UAE – March 2024 – The Model Service Society (MSS), a non-profit organization licensed by the Community Development Authority (CDA), is once again making a profound impact during the holy month of Ramadan. What began as a humble initiative 19 years ago with just 100 meals has now grown into a massive operation, serving an impressive 14,000 iftar meals daily across nine camps in Dubai. This year, MSS aims to distribute a record-breaking 500,000 meals, building on the 400,000 meals served last year.
A Journey of Compassion and Community
The initiative traces its roots back to 2006 when Shajil Shoukath, now MSS’s general secretary, and a small group of volunteers shared iftar with around 100 workers near the National Paints roundabout in Sharjah. “What started as a one-day gesture of kindness turned into a lifelong mission,” Shoukath recalled. For nearly two decades, MSS volunteers have dedicated their Ramadan evenings to this noble cause, often sacrificing family iftars to serve others.
A Collective Effort by Dedicated Volunteers
Every day during Ramadan, over 200 volunteers from diverse backgrounds—entrepreneurs, senior managers, professionals, and blue-collar workers—gather at various sites by Asr prayer. Together, they prepare and distribute fresh, nutritious meals, ensuring each worker receives a hearty iftar. The meals, which include biryani, water, laban, two types of fruit, and dates, are freshly prepared daily by 10 public kitchens, avoiding pre-packed food to maintain quality and hygiene.
As Maghrib approaches, volunteers and workers break their fasts together, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Many volunteers bring their children along, instilling values of generosity and service from a young age.
Expanding Outreach and Impact
This year, MSS is collaborating with a multinational company as part of the UAE government’s ‘Year of Community’ initiative. The program also offers a unique opportunity for students and youth to earn volunteering hours, which could contribute toward acquiring a golden visa.
“Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to our incredible volunteers, sponsors, and partners who have stood by us year after year,” said MSS Chairman Abdul Assis. “With their unwavering support, we are committed to expanding our outreach and making an even greater impact by serving more than 500,000 meals during Ramadan.”
A Family Tradition of Giving
For many volunteers, the MSS iftar initiative has become a cherished family tradition. Faiyaz Ahmed, a volunteer since the program’s inception, shared, “We ensure each meal is fresh, served in sealed containers, and includes two pieces of chicken so that workers can have a hearty meal.” His son, Adam, who is studying in Rotterdam, has been a regular volunteer at the camps in previous years.
Ameera Hassan, who leads the ladies’ volunteering squad at Sharjah Mosque, joined the initiative after being inspired by her husband, Nisthar PS, MSS’s treasurer. “It is a family ritual for us now, and the feeling you get after serving others during this holy month is indescribable,” she said.
How to Get Involved
MSS’s iftar initiative continues to grow, with more laborers joining each year. To accommodate the increasing demand, MSS has opened registrations for first-time volunteers via the CDA website, moving beyond its traditional word-of-mouth outreach.
The program’s sit-and-eat format at camps like Sajjah and Jebel Ali fosters a communal dining experience, while high-demand locations like DIP operate a take-away system.
A Message of Hope and Unity
The MSS iftar initiative is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and collective effort. As Shajil Shoukath aptly put it, “The joy of giving back, especially during Ramadan, is unparalleled.”
For those looking to be part of this extraordinary initiative, registration is now open via the CDA website under the MSS Iftar campaign. Together, we can make a difference—one meal at a time.
For more information or to volunteer, visit the CDA website or contact MSS directly.