MANAMA: The Smile Initiative, in cooperation with GFH, the Bahrain based financial group, today announced plans to host a fundraising event, “Let’s Fly Kites”, in support of its Abjad Program, which provides teaching services and support to children fighting cancer. The Smile Initiative was established under the umbrella of The Future Youth Society in order to provide much needed assistance to children with cancer and their parents.
The fundraising event, which is being held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel May 3rd 2015, will be an outdoor family event featuring a kite sale, Kids Zone and face painting and well as activities aimed at enhancing awareness of the issues facing children with cancer.
Proceeds from the sale of kites and other activities will support Abjad’s efforts to develop GFH e-library and will be used to fund the purchase of books, computers and other learning materials for use by children registered in the Abjad Program.
“We’re delighted to announce this event which will help to build awareness and support for children with cancer. We are grateful for the support of GFH in sponsoring the event and THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN HOTEL & SPA for hosting. Together, we aim to raise much needed funds for the Abjad Program and its efforts to ensure that children suffering with cancer have the support and resources needed in order to continue their studies and learning while receiving treatment. These children and their families are fighting incredibly difficult battles and we must all do what we can to help see them through these challenges times. We look forward to the event and to raising funds for Abjad and the expansion of the important services and support it is providing,” Yousif Al Sayegh, Smile Board Member and Media and Public Relations Officer, said.
The Abjad Program currently consists of eight female teachers who provide tuition to sick children in areas including Arabic language, English language, math, science, reading, writing, and computer skills. Subjects are taught to children on an individually tailored basis in line with their health conditions and ability. Some 18 children are taught at the Future Youth Society’s premises in Adliya where there is a dedicated teach room and computer lab capable of accommodating 18 children. The center is also equipped with entertainment facilities such as drawing equipment and handicrafts for the children and each child is provided with a complementary school bag.