As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen social solidarity during the holy month of Ramadan, Maya Morsy, Egypt’s Minister of Social Solidarity, attended a press conference announcing the second phase of the “Eish wa Melh” initiative, launched by the Life Makers Foundation. The organization is a member of the National Alliance for Civil Development Work, which coordinates major charitable and development efforts across Egypt.
The event also witnessed the launch of a new campaign titled “Mahrousa Board Meal”, aimed at expanding community participation in providing food support to families most in need.
Expanding the “Eish wa Melh” Initiative
During the conference, officials revealed details of the second phase of the “Eish wa Melh” initiative, which the foundation is implementing for the second consecutive year. The program aims to distribute four million hot meals by the end of Ramadan to vulnerable families across the country.
By the midpoint of Ramadan, the initiative had already reached 2.3 million meals, supported by the efforts of 22,000 volunteers from the foundation working in different governorates. The campaign also relies heavily on the participation of Egyptian households, reflecting a spirit of cooperation and community engagement during the holy month.
The initiative encourages families to prepare an additional iftar meal alongside their own. Volunteers from the foundation then collect these meals and distribute them to beneficiaries, ensuring that assistance reaches those in need in an organized and dignified manner.
Launch of the “Mahrousa Board Meal” Campaign
In addition to expanding “Eish wa Melh,” Minister Maya Morsy officially launched the “Mahrousa Board Meal” campaign. The initiative is being implemented by Sonaa Al-Hayah Foundation in partnership with approximately 500 restaurants nationwide.
The concept is based on a simple act of solidarity: customers at participating restaurants or cafés can pay in advance for an extra meal, which is recorded as a prepaid meal. Individuals facing financial hardship can later request and receive the meal free of charge.
This model allows people who are able to contribute financially to directly support those in need while preserving their dignity and privacy.
Strengthening Social Solidarity During Ramadan
The initiative forms part of broader efforts led by civil society organizations and development partners to reinforce social solidarity during Ramadan. By combining volunteer efforts, household participation, and partnerships with the private sector, these programs aim to ensure that vulnerable families have access to daily meals throughout the holy month.
Officials emphasized that such initiatives reflect the enduring values of compassion and community responsibility that characterize Ramadan in Egyptian society.
Through campaigns like “Eish wa Melh” and “Mahrousa Board Meal,” organizers hope to further strengthen community engagement while providing practical support to thousands of families in need across the country.
