Initiative turns discarded items into ‘treasure’ for the needy

AMMAN — Dawirha Bilkhayr, a community-based entrepreneurial initiative, was established with the aim of enhancing the efficiency of charitable giving in the Kingdom, according to its founder.

Dawirha Bilkhayr, launched in September of 2019 with the objective of making a positive difference in the lives of the disadvantaged, building sustainable consumption and production patterns, in addition to promoting recycling, Mohammad Abu Salim, the initiative’s founder, said. 

In remarks to The Jordan Times on Tuesday, Abu Salim said: “Household belongings that are no longer needed by their owners could be others’ treasure.”

Dawirha Bilkhayr accepts household goods and appliances, electrical devices, clothing and used furniture, according to Abu Salim who noted that the initiative’s team picks up the items from donors, tests and inspects donated items and repairs what need to be repaired before distributing them to families in need.

“We also provide technical support for the families after they receive the donated items,” he added.

It all started three years ago with Abu Salim wanting to donate a bedroom set. His friends working in charity helped him find people who were truly in need. The set ended up helping newlyweds who were very grateful of what they received, according to Abu Salim.

“This initiative also has environmental and economic aspects considering that it aims to reduce waste, while limiting the need for buying new items,” he said. 

“As the world is suffering from the COVID pandemic, many no longer renovate their homes and update their electronics and devices, resulting in less donations that is why we started accepting clothes,” he added.

Furthermore, he said that Dawirha Bilkhayr partnered with and signed memoranda of understanding with local and international organisations to increase their aid. He added that about 2,000 items of clothing have been donated since the beginning of 2021, and that the initiative has so far provided 15 employment opportunities.

“Dawirha Bilkhayr is all about giving symbolic value to the donated items and spreading the message of hope,” he said.