Minister of Labor Dr. Khaled Al-Bakkar received the President of the General Union of Charitable Societies, Amer Al-Khawaldeh, at his office in the Ministry building. Also present were several members of the Union's administrative board, including the Secretary General and President of the Karak Union, Ma'an Al-Shamaileh; the President of the Aqaba Union, Muawad Al-Muzneh; the President of the Madaba Union, Mahmoud Al-Hayseh; and the Union's Financial Director, Basem Al-Malakawi. The meeting addressed several issues related to developing the charitable work system and enhancing its role in society.
Minister Al-Bakkar emphasized that charitable work has become an essential part of the social protection system in Jordan. He pointed to the importance of institutional empowerment for associations and building practical partnerships that contribute to serving citizens and strengthening the values of social solidarity. He added that the Ministry is committed to supporting efforts that improve the quality of services provided by associations so they can fulfill their mission towards their local communities.
President Al-Khawaldeh stated that charitable societies constitute the first line of defense in supporting impoverished families. He added that the Union is working to build the capacities of these societies and develop their programs to align with the needs of society, particularly in the areas of economic empowerment, social welfare, and developing the skills of those working in the voluntary and charitable sector.
He pointed out that the charitable lottery is one of the most important tools supporting the charitable sector in Jordan, providing associations with financial support programs and empowerment projects that contribute to enhancing their ability to serve local communities.
Al-Khawaldeh emphasized that cooperation with the Ministry of Labor represents an important step towards unifying efforts and regulating charitable work in a way that strengthens its national and social role. He called for settling the outstanding loan amounts owed by associations to the Social Security Corporation and granting them an opportunity to repay without interest, taking into account their circumstances. He also called for considering facilitating the licensing procedures for kindergartens and schools affiliated with associations, enabling them to continue providing their educational and social services.
Al-Khawaldeh commended the Ministry of Labor's role and its ongoing cooperation in supporting the efforts of the charitable and volunteer sector, stressing that the next phase requires broader coordination and stronger partnerships to ensure a tangible impact on the most vulnerable groups.