Arab News

DUBAI: Celebrities in the Arab world are taking part in a social campaign to raise awareness about the importance of social distancing, with a number of stars financially supporting families who have been affected by the worldwide coronavirus pandemic.

The “goodwill challenge” was initiated by Resala Charity Organization, an Egyptian non-profit institution.

Egyptian singer Tamer Hosny took to Instagram to announce he will help 400 families. “We all want people to stay home so we can overcome this distress in Egypt, in the Middle East and around the world,” he said. “Some people are able to stay home, while others can’t because of their work conditions, so this campaign is for you.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B97-lr6pVTK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Actor Amr Youssef, who nominated Hosny, said: “Staying at home is the best thing to do, so the coronavirus does not spread. But staying home may be very difficult for many people due to their job restrictions. This is why I am very happy with the initiative Resale did,” he said, adding that he will adopt 100 families for a month.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B10jipVgHwW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Egyptian stars aren’t the only ones to help those in need during the pandemic.

Tunisian actor Dhafer L’Abidine, who said he is willing to support families in Egypt and Tunisia, urged the public to also donate to the needy. “I want to not only challenge celebrities, but also to everyone who is capable of helping during this period.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/B6l3Q8gDmnB/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Syrian celebrities Assala Nasri, Kinda Alloush and Moroccan fashion designer and entrepreneur Bassma Boussel also jumped on the bandwagon.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9e66GSgymm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

“Please tag people and motivate everyone around you, whether it’s your friends, families, or simply people who you know would love to help,” said Boussel on Instagram.