Model Service Society (MSS), a non-profit organization licensed by the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai, has been serving iftar meals during Ramadan for nearly two decades. What began with just 100 meals in 2006 has grown significantly, now distributing 14,000 meals daily across various camps. This remarkable growth is attributed to the dedication of over 200 volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including entrepreneurs, senior managers, and blue-collar workers. Each year, more volunteers join, reflecting the goodwill and joy of giving back during Ramadan.
The initiative started when a few volunteers, including Shajil Shoukath, now the general secretary, met with workers near the National Paints roundabout in Sharjah. This initial gesture evolved into a lifelong mission. Over the years, MSS volunteers have dedicated their Ramadan evenings to this cause, often sacrificing their own family iftars to serve others. The meals are freshly prepared daily by 10 public kitchens, ensuring they remain hot and hygienic. Each meal includes biryani, water, laban, two types of fruit, and dates, providing a nutritious iftar.
MSS collaborates with vendors who adhere to strict hygiene standards and contribute extra meals to support the cause. The organization also partners with multinational companies in line with the UAE government’s initiatives, offering opportunities for volunteers to earn hours that could contribute to acquiring a golden visa. The sit-and-eat format at some camps provides a communal experience, while others operate a take-away system to meet high demand.
The program is popular among women and children, with many families making it a ritual to participate. MSS ensures that each meal is fresh and served in sealed containers, often including chicken, all at a low cost of Dh8, making it attractive to sponsors. MSS acts as a bridge between kitchens and workers, not handling financial transactions. The initiative’s success is a testament to community, compassion, and collective effort, inspiring others to join and make a difference.
Last year, MSS distributed about 400,000 iftar meals, with a target of half a million this year. The chairman, Abdul Assis, expressed gratitude to volunteers, sponsors, and partners for their unwavering support, which has enabled MSS to expand its outreach and impact. Registrations for new volunteers are now open on the CDA website, marking a shift from traditional word-of-mouth outreach. This move aims to engage more volunteers, including students and youth, in the spirit of giving during Ramadan.
The MSS Iftar program is not only about serving meals but also about instilling values of generosity and service among volunteers, especially children. Many corporate volunteers return annually, bringing their families to experience the joy of giving firsthand. As the demand for meals grows, MSS continues to adapt, ensuring that every worker receives a nutritious and fulfilling iftar.
The initiative’s popularity extends beyond the meals themselves; it fosters a sense of community and compassion. Volunteers often go without food, breaking their fasts with just dates and water, to ensure that every worker is served. This selflessness is a hallmark of MSS’s commitment to its mission. As the organization looks to serve more than 500,000 meals during Ramadan, its impact on the community is undeniable, inspiring others to join in the spirit of giving.
The success of MSS’s Iftar program is a testament to the power of collective effort and goodwill. It demonstrates how community-driven initiatives can create lasting impacts, especially during significant religious events like Ramadan. As MSS continues to grow and expand its outreach, it remains a beacon of hope and generosity in Dubai.
