Doha, Qatar: The annual Qatar Volunteers (QV) Iftar Drive, now in its 17th year, once again brought together a diverse group of volunteers during the holy month of Ramadan. These volunteers dedicated their time and effort over several days, from collecting food donations and packing Iftar packets to distributing them on Friday, March 21.
More than 100 volunteers distributed essential Iftar packets containing bottled water, dates, tetra pack juices, and biscuits at key traffic signals like those at Ramada and Old Airport. The goal is to provide sustenance for those fasting and to raise awareness about the importance of safe driving, especially as people rushed to break their fast.
Members of Qatar Volunteers as they get ready to distribute Iftar packets around Doha.
The volunteers encouraged drivers to slow down and focus on safety, ensuring they could reach their families without risk. The campaign not only served as an act of kindness but also as a reminder to take caution on the road.
Mariam Alwakeel, an 8-year-old participant, joined for the first time this year. “I’m really grateful to be involved in the awesome work of Qatar Volunteers. It feels good to help others and be part of something bigger than myself. I hope my small act of kindness brings joy to others, just as it has to me,” she told The Peninsula.
“This is a cause close to my heart for over 13 years now. Every year, we gather to share a simple gesture of kindness with fasting individuals on the road,” Benigno Mega Cervantes, a dedicated member of QV from the Philippines, told The Peninsula. “It’s a small act, but we hope it makes a big difference in reminding everyone to drive calmly, so they can reach their loved ones safely to break their fast.”
The QV Iftar Drive was launched in 2008 by founder Speed Oli and has since become an essential annual tradition for Qatar Volunteers, a diverse and dedicated group of volunteers committed to serving the community and making a positive impact during the holy month of Ramadan.
