295 charities, societies receive financial support from Royal Initiative

AMMAN — Charities and centres supporting orphans, people with disabilities and excelling students said they highly valued the support they received on Saturday as part of an initiative by His Majesty King Abdullah.

On Saturday, financial support was extended to 295 charities and societies from across the Kingdom. The selection was conducted in coordination with the Ministry of Social Development and the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

“We highly value this Royal support, which is a recognition of our efforts and a direct support to the beneficiaries of our programmes,” Bassima Ghawi, secretary of the Jordan Education for Women Empowerment and Learning Society, told The Jordan Times.

The society, which funds scholarships for female students to pursue their university studies at Jordanian universities, was established in 2006 and has since provided scholarships to 34 students, Ghawi said.

The society is planning to support 10 female students in 2019, she added.

“Female students who score more than 92 in Tawjihi and whose families are unable to fund their study at universities, and [who] meet certain conditions, benefit from the society,” according to Ghawi.

Suleiman Abu Qamar, head of the administrative board of Ajwaa Jordan Charity Association, said the Royal Initiative provides much needed support for charities and centres.

“We do get donations from individuals, which are important for providing services, but this support [from the Royal Initiative] is essential for the societies and charities themselves,” Abu Qamar told The Jordan Times on Saturday.

Royal Hashemite Court Chief Yousef Issawi, head of the follow-up committee for the implementation of Royal Initiatives, said the support, which was extended for the 9th year in a row, coincides with the King’s birthday and the 20th anniversary of his Accession to the Throne.

“This support seeks to benefit segments of the society that are so dear to our hearts, including persons with disabilities, the elderly and orphans,” said Issawi.

“His Majesty is keen on attaining sustainable development, and citizens represent the focal point in the development process,” he said.

Minister of Social Development Basma Ishaqat said the charity and society selections followed a thorough process to ensure fairness, and was based on international standards adopted in this regard.

The financial and administrative situation of charities and centres was also taken into account, said the minister, adding that field visits will be conducted to check on the performance of these charities and centres, and to ensure that support is delivered to those in need and who deserve it.