Many domestic workers who help take care of homes in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) do not get opportunities to go out for fun activities or trips. They are usually very busy with their work and do not have much free time. An Indian community group wanted to change this.
The group is called Prachara Chavakkad UAE. It is made up of families from Kerala, a state in India. The women’s wing of the group organises social activities. They realised that domestic workers could use a fun day out. One helper named Kavitha Vinod had asked if the group could do something for workers.
Kavitha along with the two other helpers – Kavitha Muthu and Lakshmy – then started talking to other helpers on WhatsApp groups. They asked who would like to join a trip being organised by Prachara Chavakkad. In total, 150 helpers from Dubai and nearby Sharjah signed up to go.
The group got permission to use a farm and hall in the emirate of Fujairah for the day trip. Three big luxury buses were used to take everyone there safely. The trip launch was attended by important people like the Chairman of Prachara Chavakkad and a businessman who supported the trip.
When the helpers reached Fujairah, many fun activities were planned. There was entertainment like games and programmes. All the helpers were served food, which was a new experience as they are usually the ones cooking for others. Everyone also got goodie bags with gifts like phones and watches inside. A lucky draw was held where expensive prizes were given out.
One helper named Jessy BJ said she had never been able to enjoy activities outdoors before this. As a widow and with two kids, her outings were limited to church on weekends. She said the day trip felt like “heaven” and she was “in the clouds” the whole time. Another helper, Kavitha Vinod, got many messages after from other workers wanting a similar trip too.
In summary, the Prachara Chavakkad group gave 150 domestic helpers an amazing experience they will never forget. It let the hardworking women take a break and have fun for the day. Such community initiatives can really brighten someone’s life and are greatly appreciated. This just shows that even a small kind act can make a big difference.
