In a touching act of compassion, UAE-based entrepreneur Maria Paz Banaag-Marquez has launched a grassroots initiative to support expatriate families facing financial hardship.
Helping hands in difficult times
Amid rising cases of unpaid leave and reduced wages linked to global tensions, Maria Paz announced that her pastry chain will distribute 300 free grocery packets across Deira, Satwa, and Sharjah.
Each packet, valued at approximately Dh75 (₹1,700), includes essential items such as rice, eggs, canned food, and coffee.
Inspired by customer struggles
Maria said the initiative was driven by what she observed among her customers. Many approached her seeking part-time work or sharing concerns about sudden income loss.
“I’ve been seeing forced leave cases and unpaid salaries. I wanted to help, even if it’s in a small way,” she said.
Community-led effort
The grocery kits were curated based on direct feedback from customers, with staples like rice topping the list. Her team, along with family members abroad, has joined hands to organise the effort.
She emphasised trust in the community, choosing direct aid over employment opportunities that may not be sustainable in the current economic climate.
Choosing aid over hiring
Despite receiving frequent job requests, Maria explained that offering employment could lead to further uncertainty if business conditions worsen.
“I may train them, but if things don’t improve, I might not be able to pay salaries. This felt like a more immediate and responsible way to help,” she said.
Personal sacrifice for a cause
In a heartfelt gesture, Maria also decided to cut down her personal holiday expenses and contribute an additional Dh5,000 (₹1.1 lakh approx.) to the initiative.
A journey of resilience
Maria’s story is one of perseverance. She moved to the UAE in 2008 and worked as a domestic helper for 13 years before launching her bakery business in 2021. Today, she runs nine outlets across the country.
Giving back to society
Reflecting on her journey, she said the initiative is her way of returning the kindness she received.
“The UAE has given me so much. This is my way of giving back,” she said.