For the past ten years, Sharjah resident Mariya Murtaza Baughwala has been quietly running a remarkable initiative—collecting used clothes, bed linen, and curtains from homes across the UAE and shipping them to those in need in India. What started as a simple realization has grown into a well-organized operation, offering warmth and dignity to countless individuals.
The idea first struck Mariya when she visited different parts of India and saw firsthand the struggles of people lacking basic necessities. "I noticed that many people were in desperate need of clothing and essentials while, here in the UAE, we often had surplus items, so I decided to do my bit,” she said.
Mariya single-handedly collects, sorts, and packs donations, relying solely on her network of family, friends, and community contacts to ensure they reach the right people. "The most satisfying part is when I receive direct thank-you messages from those who received the items," she says.
Mariya’s collection process is based on word-of-mouth, WhatsApp groups, and community referrals. Over the years, donors have come to trust her, knowing their contributions will reach those in genuine need. Each month, it takes about 15–20 days to collect donations from homes across the UAE. With the help of her family, she then sorts items by category, ensuring that each shipment is packed according to specific requirements.
"For example, during winter, some cities in India urgently need warm clothes, so we prioritize those. Similarly, before Ramadan—the month of fasting, prayer, and reflection in Islam—there’s a huge demand for traditional and modest clothing, as families prepare for gatherings and celebrations. So we package our shipments accordingly," she explains.
Once packed, cartons weighing 50–60 kg each are shipped via a trusted courier company that provides efficient and reasonably priced services for her undertaking.
Mariya’s initiative has been especially impactful during times of crisis. "During floods, earthquakes, and even the COVID-19 pandemic, it was incredibly difficult to send supplies. But when the aid finally reached those affected, the heartfelt messages I received made every effort worthwhile," she shares.
What began as a solo effort is now gaining momentum, with women’s groups in the Dawoodi Bohra community stepping in to assist with collections. Mariya hopes to expand her network and reach even more people in need. "I’ve been fortunate to have the support of my family and community, and as awareness grows, so does the impact. My goal is to serve even more people, ensuring that what we no longer need finds its way to those who do," she says.
