SHARJAH, 5th April, 2023 (WAM) — The Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP), a charitable society dedicated to providing support to cancer patients and their families in the UAE, has initiated a Zakat fundraising campaign to assist financially-burdened cancer patients during the Holy Month of Ramadan.
Carrying the slogan “Worth More Than Words", the campaign revolves around the social taboo surrounding the word "cancer," which is often deemed sensitive and uncomfortable to broach across cultures. The campaign aims to encourage individuals from all walks of life to contribute to the fight against cancer and ease the economic distress patients face.
The FOCP's Zakat campaign is consistent with the Permanent Fatwa Committee in Sharjah's guidelines, which authorises Zakat funds to be utilised towards supporting the medical requirements of patients who encounter financial obstacles. With this noble endeavour, the FOCP seeks to bridge the financial gaps and make a positive difference in the lives of those grappling with cancer.
How to donate:
FOCP urged everyone to participate in this Zakat campaign and contribute generously to support the cause of helping cancer patients and their families during Ramadan.
Zakat Coupons: To support FOCP's noble cause, individuals can purchase Zakat coupons through these links https://focp.ae, https://focp.ae/zakat, https://focp.ae/coupon.
Bank Transfers: Donations can also be made via bank transfers to FOCP's account no: 007-520-0257455-01 at the Dubai Islamic Bank (International Bank Account Number IBAN: AE32 0240 0075 2002 5745 501).
SMS Donations: People can also donate by sending an SMS with the word 'Zakat' to the following designated Etisalat numbers to contribute: 6447 to donate AED20; 4426 to donate AED50, 4467 to donate AED200; or 2308 to donate AED500.
Commenting on the Ramadan campaign, Aisha Al Mulla, Director of the FOCP, said, "Donations received by the FOCP represent a main source of our resources that goes towards alleviating the pain and spreading hope for cancer patients. No matter how small the donation may seem, the generosity of various community segments in this noble effort creates a significant difference for patients, and can save the lives of thousands every year."
She added, “The FOCP collected AED2.7 million last year, where most of the funds (60 percent) were allocated towards medicines and chemotherapy treatments. Additionally, 18 percent was spent on surgical operations, nine percent each on medical tests and radiotherapy. The remaining amount was utilised to acquire medical equipment and supplies.”
The financial support provided by the FOCP in 2022 was extended to over 250 cancer patients, including 200 females, 34 males, and 16 children. Thousands of volunteers and beneficiaries have also been involved in the FOCP’s initiatives and programmes, which focus on raising awareness about cancer risks and early detection methods and offering financial and moral support to patients and their families.
The campaign aims to rally support of the public in assisting cancer patients during their arduous journey of recovery. By donating and contributing to this honourable cause, individuals can make a significant difference in the lives of those impacted by cancer.