BMC's Anti-poverty Programs
BMC's Anti-poverty Programs
Strengthening Community and Social Responsibility
BMC's Anti-poverty Programs
BMC places a strong emphasis on fostering community engagement and social wellbeing among its students. The college's Social Responsibility Unit plays a key role in organizing initiatives that encourage students to participate in activities that benefit the community, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility.
In 2024, BMC sustains its steady commitment to reducing poverty and promoting social welfare through a variety of impactful initiatives, driven by its strong sense of social responsibility. BMC fully embraces its role in supporting and empowering the community it serves. This commitment was evident in the academic year 2023/24, with BMC students and staff contributing over 285,000 volunteer hours to various community and charitable projects. This remarkable investment highlights the institution's firm commitment to the community's well-being.
As part of its broader mission, BMC provides comprehensive support, from resources to workforce, actively participating in initiatives designed to reduce poverty. Through these continuous efforts, BMC proactively engages in continually various initiatives targeting the mitigation of poverty aiming to formulate a community where welfare is accessible to all.
Food Day Bazaar: BMC’s Social Responsibility Unit organized Food Day Bazaar to support students facing financial difficulties. This student-led initiative fostered a spirit of community and collective responsibility. Students and faculty came together to sell food and other goods, raising funds to support a financially struggling student. Through these efforts, the bazaar emphasized the importance of education as a pathway out of poverty and demonstrated how simple actions can have a profound impact on alleviating financial stress for students.
Food and Medication Waste Campaign: Continuing its focus on addressing poverty and inequality, BMC launched the Food and Medication Waste Campaign. The initiative aimed to educate the community about the proper disposal of excess medications while encouraging donations to benefit charitable organizations. By repurposing unused medications and reducing food waste, the campaign contributed to improving the lives of underprivileged families and individuals. This campaign not only raised awareness but also actively involved students in volunteering to combat issues related to waste and food insecurity.
Founding Day Charitable Bazaar: As part of BMC’s ongoing efforts to reduce financial disparities among students, the Founding Day Charitable Bazaar focused on raising funds to support students in need. This initiative, aligned with SDG 4: Quality Education, engaged students and faculty in organizing a bazaar that fostered a strong sense of social responsibility. The funds raised were used to provide financial aid for students facing economic challenges, helping them continue their education and reducing the burden of financial strain.
International Volunteer Day – Walkathon: One notable initiative that held in December 2023 at Jeddah Waterfront. This event was organized to promote a culture of volunteerism and community engagement, encouraging students to dedicate their time and energy to a cause that enhances the quality of life for everyone involved. Participation in events like these not only strengthens community ties but also teaches students the importance of contributing to society, a crucial quality for future healthcare professionals.
Parade with People of Determination: Another significant event organized in collaboration with Jeddah Municipality and Our Leisure Life Association. This initiative, held in September 2023, aimed to promote inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities. By participating in the parade and engaging with people of determination, BMC students gained a deeper understanding of diversity and inclusivity, learning how to support and empower all members of society. Such experiences are invaluable for students preparing for careers in healthcare, where empathy and understanding are key components of patient care.
Keswatul Eid: BMC has consistently demonstrated a deep-rooted commitment to community service, transcending beyond the realms of academia into actionable humanitarian efforts. One such endeavor is BMC's proactive involvement in the donation of used clothes. Spearheaded by the passionate volunteers from BMC students and staff, this initiative saw the collection of gently used clothing, meticulously sorted and readied for those in need. The heartwarming act of generosity wasn't just limited to the contributions of volunteers; BMC as an institution added to this effort, ensuring a substantial collection to benefit many families in need. Along with these efforts, BMC further amplified its commitment during the feast seasons through the 'Keswatul Eid' initiative. Recognizing the joy and significance attached to wearing new clothes during this happiness, BMC championed the cause of donating new clothes. This gesture wasn't merely about cloth, but a sincere effort to infuse a sense of celebration, dignity, and happiness amongst the low-income people during a time of communal joy. These initiatives demonstrate BMC’s holistic approach to community service, ensuring continuity in efforts that engage visible assistance with the emotional and cultural well-being of the families in-need.
Food Baskets: Under the banner of the "We Are All Responsible" initiative, BMC has continued this year to reaffirm its commitment to combating poverty and supporting the community. Collaborating with various non-profit organizations and charitable entities, BMC has taken concrete steps to alleviate the hardships faced by underprivileged families and individuals, especially during the holy month of Ramadan and two feasts. Understanding the significance of food security and its direct correlation to the 'No Poverty' Goal, BMC has been at the forefront of offering visible assistance. The provision of food baskets is a main example of this dedication. Through coordinated efforts and an inherent desire to make a difference, BMC has successfully distributed over 1200 food baskets to impoverished families. These baskets, packed with essential food items, not only provide immediate relief but also represent a broader commitment to community welfare. They serve as a beacon of hope, showcasing that institution, when driven by a decisive mission, can make meaningful contributions towards community improvement. By championing such initiatives, BMC is not just addressing immediate needs but also taking steps towards achieving a sustainable, No poverty and zero hunger future for all.
Ramadan Boxes: Ramadan, a holy month in the Islamic calendar, underscores the essence of sharing, compassion, and community advancement. Recognizing this, the Volunteering Club at BMC hosts the significant "Ramadan Boxes" event annually, aimed directly at supporting families in need, in alignment with the 'No Poverty' Goal. In March 2024, this valued event was organized, confirming BMC's commitment to societal welfare. The event extended over two critical phases: the collection of generous donations and the careful preparation of the boxes. A proactive visit to a wholesale market the week prior ensured the acquisition of essential supplies, which were promptly delivered the next couple of days. On the designated day, 120 volunteers convened, channeling their collective energies into assembling, and packing the boxes. These boxes were filled with non-perishable foodstuff, such as flour, oil, tea, dates, and various other essentials, ensuring the beneficiaries could observe Ramadan without the concern of shortage. About, 1500 meticulously prepared boxes reached deserving families across Jeddah, echoing BMC's deep commitment to mitigate poverty and fostering a feel of community, especially during significant periods. This initiative not only provides immediate relief but also serves as a landmark for solidarity, and human connection.
Holistic Commitment to Orphan Care: BMC has made significant strides in addressing the needs of vulnerable communities, particularly orphans, taking a compassionate and holistic approach to their care and making sure their needs are met not only in terms of health but also in their emotional, financial and social well-being. By focusing on both immediate care and long-term empowerment, BMC ensures that these children have the support they need to grow, thrive, and become active, contributing members of society. As part of its efforts to reduce poverty, BMC works closely with non-profit organizations and healthcare providers to ensure that orphans receive the care and support they need to thrive.
BMC understands that caring for orphans goes beyond just physical health. The college is committed to nurturing their emotional and social well-being too. Through tailored programs, BMC equips orphans with essential life skills, helping them build the confidence to face the challenges life may bring. These programs are designed to help them integrate smoothly into society, ensuring they feel supported and empowered.
In addition to regular health and education programs, BMC hosts special events to bring joy and a sense of belonging to these children. A prime example is the annual Eid celebration. In 2023, 75 volunteers came together to create a magical day for the children, with 52 kids from Abdullah Alsharbatly's orphanage and 60 from the Social Nursery for Girls enjoying a day full of fun activities. The event was designed to make sure they could experience the happiness of Eid, creating lasting memories in a warm, festival environment.
Beyond these events, BMC builds long-lasting relationships with organizations like the Social Nursery for Girls, working together to support orphans not just in the moment but throughout their lives. These collaborations help ensure that the orphans are given continuous care and opportunities for growth.
BMC’s orphan care initiatives reflect a holistic approach, addressing the physical, emotional, and social needs of orphans. By fostering a supportive environment and providing comprehensive care, BMC actively contributes to reducing poverty and improving the lives of these children. Through sustained efforts and meaningful partnerships, BMC continues to make a lasting impact on the community, empowering orphans to build better futures for themselves.
Makeen: One of the significant steps taken by BMC is its strategic partnership with Savola World Foundation towards eliminating poverty, it also touches upon inclusivity in education for disabled students. BMC's involvement in Savola flagship programs, Makeen, underscores its dedication to this goal. Makeen portal, supervised by the Savola Group, is a national leader in recruiting people with disabilities. The objective is clear: to integrate people with disabilities into the community as productive and influential members. By creating an equitable educational environment for all students.
Osteoporosis and Vitamin D Deficiency Campaigns: BMC consistently endeavors to further the 'No Poverty' Goal, recognizing the intersectionality of health and socioeconomic well-being. A tangible demonstration of this commitment was the Osteoporosis and Vitamin D Deficiency Campaign. This proactive initiative was coordinated by the students from the Physical Therapy program. To magnify the campaign's reach and impact, BMC set up dedicated booths that embarked on an educational journey, elucidating various aspects of osteoporosis. These booths disseminated crucial information on the disease's nature, prevalence, causes, associated risk factors, diagnostic measures, preventative dietary guidelines, and mitigation strategies. A significant emphasis was placed on highlighting the pivotal role exercises and physical therapy play in the management and treatment of osteoporosis. On the other hand, in site campaigns were held for students and staff from 15 distinct schools in Jeddah; They were provided with a concise five-minutes risk assessment, ensuring they gained a practical understanding of their potential susceptibility to the disease. By championing Osteoporosis Day, BMC not only underscores its dedication to fostering holistic health awareness but also delineates its belief in health as a cornerstone of socio-economic stability and prosperity.
Support of Multiple Sclerosis patients: In a noteworthy collaboration with the "Wasm" association, BMC has initiated campaigns to support patients afflicted with Multiple Sclerosis and other related diseases. This joint initiative provides a comprehensive suite of services addressing the multi-faceted needs of these patients. Beyond medical care, it extends to involve psychological assistance, tailored training programs, and awareness campaigns. Furthermore, these efforts also focus on educational support, ensuring that patients have the resources and knowledge to understand their condition better. Through such initiatives, BMC strives to mitigate the physical, emotional, and economic challenges faced by those with chronic diseases, underscoring its commitment to a wealthy community.
Dental Clinic Services: BMC, in alignment with the 'No Poverty' Goal, has made pronounced strides in ensuring accessible healthcare, particularly in the domain of dental services. In a commendable partnership with public and nonprofit sectors, BMC opened the doors of its 8 Dental Clinics to provide complimentary dental care and medication to the community. More than 36,000 patients benefited from this initiative, receiving quality dental treatments at BMC's Dental Clinics without any costs. Such efforts underscore BMC's commitment to not only elevating health standards but also mitigating financial burdens on individuals.
Moreover, one recent initiative, led by BMC's Dentistry Program, focused on improving the oral health of children living in an orphanage. During the visit, BMC students and staff taught the children proper brushing techniques, the importance of regular dental check-ups, and how a balanced diet affects dental health. Along with providing this vital education, they conducted dental screenings and gave out oral hygiene kits to ensure the children could take what they learned into their daily routines. The program continue as each child is now regularly seen by an assigned dentist to monitor their progress, making sure they receive ongoing care that can prevent common dental issues often faced by disadvantaged children.