More than 4,500 workers have benefited from the Indian Community Welfare Association’s (ICWA) summer campaign Thirst Quenchers this year.
The group staged the grand finale of the programme at a site in Sitra yesterday, uniting volunteers and philanthropists across ages from the community. Fruit and refreshments were distributed to workers during the event, which was also attended by ministry officials and ICWA representatives.
The initiative, which is supported by the Labour Ministry, the Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), seeks to educate participants on health awareness during the hot summer season.
“It is extremely encouraging to see the Thirst Quenchers campaign completing its 11th successful year,” event co-ordinator Chemban Jalal told the GDN.
“What began in 2016 as a small initiative has grown into a sustained community outreach programme, reaching thousands of workers every summer. This year, through 11 weekly programmes, we were able to reach more than 4,500 workers. Our sincere thanks go to all the volunteers, supporting organisations and well-wishers who have contributed to making each programme successful,” he added.
For his part, ICWA chairman Adv V K Thomas noted how summer in Bahrain can be particularly challenging for workers who are working outdoors.
“Through our Thirst Quenchers summer awareness campaign, we aim not only to provide some immediate relief but also to create awareness about the importance of hydration, proper rest and other essential health and safety precautions during the summer,” he said.
“We are grateful to the Labour Ministry, LMRA and IOM for their valuable support and co-operation in making this initiative successful. The continued participation of the community, especially the Bohra Community, students and volunteers is a great encouragement to the ICWA.”
Established in 1999, the registered non-profit, non-governmental organisation is committed to providing relief and support with initiatives specifically designed to benefit low-income individuals particularly expatriates.
From operating helplines for those seeking mental health support to offering families in distress guidance and respite, the group’s programmes are run by dedicated volunteers. Among them is Anu Jose from Janabiya. “More than just providing relief to workers with fruit, juices and ice cream during the scorching summers, Thirst Quenchers conveys a simple but powerful message: ‘We are there with you’,” the 55-year-old explained.
“It reminds every worker that their health and well-being matter – not only to us, but also to the families who depend on them.”
The humanitarian works closely with ICWA and has been involved in philanthropic activities across different local platforms for two decades.
“What makes this initiative even more meaningful is the growing participation of student volunteers,” he added. “By stepping out in the heat and serving workers firsthand, we are nurturing a budding generation that cares, understands and empathises – a generation that learns that compassion is not just a feeling, but an action.”
Tvesha Chakrabarti, from Juffair, is among the younger generation stepping forward to help.
The 21-year-old auditor, who has been volunteering with ICWA for more than three years now, noted that she joined the group for a university internship that was mandatory at the time. While she did not expect to continue, she found the experience so enriching and rewarding and has kept at it.
“Watching people benefit from something as simple as a medical check-up, or a cold drink on a hot day, and seeing how grateful they are, has stayed with me. It’s a good reminder of why this kind of work matters, even when the individual contributions feel small,” said the Bahrain resident of 18 years.
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