JEDDAH, 10 July 2007 — Special needs children and orphans were entertained on Sunday with music, a magic show and other activities during a charity program organized by Saudi Aramco as part of the ongoing Jeddah Summer Festival at Shallal Garden on the Corniche.
“This is Saudi Aramco’s largest charity festival for special needs children and orphans, which demonstrates our commitment to the cause for the sixth consecutive year,” Nabil ibn Ahmed Bashan, manager of administrative affairs at Saudi Aramco, said in his welcome address.
A number of officials from the Ministry of Social Affairs, Makkah Region, and top executives from Saudi Aramco, various official agencies, charity organizations and rehabilitation centers were also present at the program, which was attended by more than 250 boys and girls accompanied by their parents or guardians.
“My son was thrilled to participate in this program and I would like to thank Saudi Aramco for organizing such an eventful evening for special needs children,” a parent remarked.
“This year’s summer program marks a quality shift with diverse activities for children with special needs... We have also organized an art exhibition and a painting competition for these children in a bid to instill in them a sense of creativity and help them brush up their skills,” Bashan said.
Aside from cultural programs, activities included a health awareness and child safety program.
As part of the summer program, Saudi Aramco is also organizing education and training classes for children, Bashan said, adding that the company will continue organizing such events.
He further commended the role of volunteers, who worked to amalgamate a large number of special needs children and orphans under one roof, all with the aim of providing them with entertainment.
Saud Bukhari, director of the Rehabilitation Department at the Ministry of Social Affairs, Makkah Region, appreciated Saudi Aramco’s gesture. Essam Tayib, former director general of Social Affairs, and Hissa Ankari, director of Total Rehabilitation Center, both for the Makkah Region, also made references to Saudi Aramco’s efforts in supporting social activities.
