Some welfare societies were also established in the names of wealthy people after they were allowed to do so recently.

The societies started to accrue more revenue after charity work was regulated and limited only to officially registered organizations.

Regrettably, the organizations, save for a few, have not developed professionally.

They continue to depend on part-time staff, and therefore their services have not improved. They have also continued to be hampered by red tape and slowness in implementing procedures.

Then came a call for these organizations to resort to wakf (endowment) buildings to guarantee them with a permanent source of income.

As a member of a number of charity organizations’ boards of directors, I was one of the advocates of the establishment of wakf as an important source of income instead of depending on donations that fluctuate, disturbing the work of those who plan for the future of these organizations.

However, some organizations’ substantial funds have turned them into companies that invest in real estate, shares and others. The needy people hear about the large donations these organizations receive, but do not obtain improved services from them in return.

In the light of this, the minister of social affairs has been asked to ensure charity organizations in our country stick to their traditional tasks of supporting the poor and needy.

There should be a comprehensive review of charity organizations’ work with a view to exploring new avenues where they can provide services. This is especially the case in the health sector, which is a real nightmare for needy families in view of the pressure on government health services that drive people to opt for expensive treatment at private hospitals.

If some charity organizations, especially the big ones, establish dispensaries and physiotherapy centers like the Prince Sultan Medical Charity Organization, many poor people will benefit.

These hospitals and health centers will also ensure the organizations with extra income and will provide their employees with health benefits.

This is just an example that the minister of social affairs referred to when he recently visited Huraimila welfare society of what charity organizations can do.

The important thing is that charity organizations should not preoccupy themselves with managing their financial resources instead of concentrating on providing the poor and needy with the services they require.

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