Charity shops : Are there any in Algeria?

[BACK2MYROOTS]

I've often wondered whether there were any charity shops at all in Algeria. Is the notion locally unknown or is it merely impractical to set up a charity shop there?

When I first came to this country, donkey's years ago (that ages me a bit!), I often felt irritated when people even mentioned the word 'charity'. I thought and felt like saying to them, '' Look, you live in a very rich, developed country. Why are you begging?'' That was ignoramus 'me' in the '80s.

Now, I understand fully why they are there and I think we should all have them, including Algeria.

So, are there any there?
Just wondered.

[Al-khiyal]

I'm not sure if there is a direct equivalent of Western-style 'charity shops' but some of the markets are noted for selling certain goods cheaper than elsewhere. And of course there are official and unofficial charitable organisations. There is a very commendable, very decent U.K.-based operation that sends things to less well off people in Algeria, perhaps the organiser has some idea of whether there are anything like charity shops there, or perhaps she liaises with certain groups and orphanages directly. Algerian Action is a very nice way of bringing strangers together, and quietly doing some good at the same time. al 7amdulillah for the decent people of this world.

[silkcut]

saha el belda,
i believe that charities workers do it for free or for very little money. have you ever met an algerian who work for free???

[BACK2MYROOTS]

To continue this thread...

Now that the initial question has been answered, I'm hoping that this thread would raise awareness of what could be done back home in Algeria. Don't tell me Algerians aren't charitable. I don't believe that for a moment.

Let's all remember that ALL good Muslims pay zakat, but not everybody can pay 'cash'. So given the opportunity, many would gladly give away nearly new clothes, bric-a-brac, books, DVDs etc. to a charity. It could easily become an alternative way to be charitable. A lot of money could be raised this way. Hundreds of charitable causes could also be supported this way. And the shops would provide employment for all sorts of people, including those normally excluded from the labour market.

Why not give people the opportunity to donate their old jewellery, wedding dresses, baby clothes, furniture etc ?

I know some people will say finding business premises and paying rent is going to be a big problem. Of course, nothing comes easy. Be creative. Make higher up contacts. Remember it's good for politicians to be associated with charitable work. Enlist their help. Study models of charities in other Arab / Islamic countries to emulate.

You'll be surprised how much charitable work is backed financially by rich Arab sheikhs in the uk. (One pays for all food served at iftaar during Ramadhan & Eid in local Mosque here).

Some homework is clearly needed. It might just pay off, and you'll be the first to have started it!

Maybe I'm just a dreamer.

B2MR