Shoppers are being urged to open their hearts and lend a helping hand once more by backing City Centre Bahrain’s 10th annual Make a Difference campaign.
Special collection boxes have been placed in the mall’s central galleria to allow shoppers to donate items during Ramadan that many may take for granted but could make a difference to a family struggling to make ends meet.
Duaij Khalifa Al Rumaihi, senior mall manager for City Centre Bahrain, said: “The campaign really has evolved over the years. What’s different is that we are adding an element for kids. In addition to gathering books, clothing and non-perishable food items, we are also collecting toys.
“Last year we collected in excess of 9,500 bags in Bahrain. This year we are hoping that we will achieve even higher numbers.” Collected items will be donated to local charitable and humanitarian organisation, The Islamic Association.
The nonperishable food items will be distributed on a daily basis and other items distributed as the boxes are filled to capacity. Clothing will be sent out before Eid. The annual Ramadan initiative has been launched by retail and leisure gaints Majid Al Futtaim at its malls in Egypt, Lebanon, Oman, the UAE as well as Bahrain.
Last year, the company collected more than 36 tons of donated items which were distributed to families in need across the region through its aid partners. City Centre Bahrain also aims to spread the spirit of the holy month by hosting its traditional Gergaoun celebrations from 9pm to midnight on Monday, in conjunction with the Ministry of Social Development.
A traditional band with the Fraisah - a wooden horse dance - will roam the mall beating drums while children sing from store-to-store for candy and nuts. Visitors will also enjoy a complimentary coffee and dates along with live entertainment by Oud players.
For further details, visit www.Facebook.com/ CityCentreBahrain or www. citycentrebahrain.com
