JEDDAH: MOHAMMED AL-KINANI ARABNEWS

Published — Wednesday 13 November 2013

The government provides special care for female orphans at its Social Affairs facilities including accommodation, education and even handling marriage proposals, an official said here recently.

Abdullah Al-Tawi, director general of the social affairs department in Makkah region, told Arab News that these parentless females are considered “our daughters” as soon as they arrive. “Orphans are divided into three categories — those living in our orphanages, with foster families or cared for by charities,” said Al-Tawi.

Al-Tawi said Islam calls on Muslims to show mercy toward orphans. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, once said that the person who cares for an orphan is destined for paradise.

“A family that looks after an orphan usually only seeks reward from Allah. However, the Ministry of Social Affairs helps that family with SR3,000 a month,” Al-Tawi said. The ministry monitors families and orphans, he said.
Al-Tawi said the government provides education for female orphans to ensure they become good mothers. It also ensures they have access to various recreational activities including outings.

“We take them to various commercial and recreational centers. And on trips to Abha, Madinah, Makkah and other cities they want to visit,” said Al-Tawi.

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