More than 80 colourful Eidiya cards will be distributed to children battling cancer during Eid Al Fitr, continuing a heartfelt annual initiative aimed at spreading joy and strengthening community spirit.
The ‘Sherie Boutik x one% Eid Card Yearly Initiative’ is being organised by Bahrain resident Sherie Alireza, in co-ordination with the Bahrain Future Society for Youth’s Smile Initiative.
Artists and creatives from all backgrounds are invited to dedicate ‘one per cent of their time’ to design a beautiful card that would bring a smile to the faces of the cancer warriors. Each card is delivered in an envelope containing BD5 during Eid Al Fitr.
The kind-hearted initiative also aims to provide psychosocial care to children with cancer and their families.
Despite challenges caused by recent regional tensions, organiser and boutique owner Sherie Alireza told the GDN that she remained committed to fulfilling her promise to the children.
“During the first few days, everyone was in survival mode and understandably focused on their safety,” the Canadian national, who has lived in Bahrain for 12 years, said.
“We therefore organised a single day for those who were interested in participating to come in and design as many cards as possible.
“It was a little rushed and did not quite have the same sense of community togetherness as in previous years, but nonetheless, we made it work in order to keep our promise to the children,” she added.
In previous editions, volunteers were invited to collect batches of 10 cards to colour individually at home, ensuring each child received a unique, handmade piece.
This year saw a new addition, with calligraphy artists encouraged to design a special ‘Eid Mubarak’ greeting.
The winning design, created by Pakistani artist Amna Qureshi, has been printed on the cards.
“Her font felt lively and animated, with a charming childlike quality that made it beautifully different from the styles we have had in previous years,” Ms Alireza said.
She explained that in the early years, the initiative collaborated with several organisations.
However, it was their work with the Smile Initiative – and the opportunity to meet the young warriors firsthand – that affirmed their decision to continue the partnership, as the children’s smiles made it undeniably worthwhile.
The campaign was recognised last month at the seventh edition of the Shaikha Fatima Programme for Excellence and Community Intelligence Awards, held in Abu Dhabi, in the Support and Care for Community category.
Launched in 2020, the initiative highlights the true spirit of Ramadan by encouraging generosity, compassion and community engagement.
Ms Alireza noted that especially during challenging times, it is encouraging to see people continue to come together for a good cause.
Traditionally, children receive money as Eid gifts from family members.
However, many now prefer more thoughtful gestures that make the occasion more memorable and personal.
Over the past two years, more than 200 cards have been distributed as part of the campaign, bringing smiles to young patients during difficult times.
The GDN reported earlier this week that several banks announced the availability of crisp bank notes for Eidiya at their dedicated ATMs located across the country.
For more information, follow @sherieboutik on Instagram.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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