KUWAIT: Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Dr Amthal Al-Huwailah launched Thursday an initiative to enhance the lives of the elderly in care homes and children in orphanages. Dubbed “lamat al-ahel”, or the family gathering in English, the initiative aims at establishing lasting connections between the elderly and the children.

The announcement came during a speech given by Minister Al-Huwailah at a celebration belatedly marking the International Day for Older Persons and the opening of “Al-Firdous Diwaniya for the Elderly.” Minister Al-Huwailah emphasized that the initiative more than just a single-day social event, but a project aimed at building enduring human connections between generations, providing an opportunity for the elderly to share their wisdom and experience with the orphaned children, who in turn will gain a sense of familial warmth of which they have been deprived.

Minister Al-Huwailah said the intergenerational interaction will create an environment rich in love and care, strengthening the values of compassion and belonging within Kuwaiti society. She thanked the Society of the Revival of Islamic Heritage (RIHS) for their support and fruitful collaboration in the opening of the diwaniya, underscoring the importance of community partnership.

Dr Khaled Al-Ajmi, Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs, said Kuwait is a leader in providing care for the elderly, praising the community partnerships that contribute to enhancing services for this age group. — KUNA