SOUTH TANGERANG — As a form of concern for the education of orphans and the poor, Dompet Dhuafa and Gramedia collaborated once again to hold a Shopping with Orphans event, which took place on Wednesday (09/07/2025) at Gramedia World BSD, South Tangerang. A total of 25 orphaned children from various educational levels, ranging from kindergarten to junior high school, were seen enthusiastically and joyfully selecting school supplies in preparation for the new academic year, especially during the month of Muharram 1447 H, a time to honor orphaned children.
Throughout the event, joy was evident on the faces of the orphaned children. They were accompanied by older siblings from Dompet Dhuafa as they selected school supplies such as backpacks, books, pencils, erasers, and other writing tools.
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One of them is Ayra Shirli (6), an orphan from Tangerang who will be starting kindergarten. She eagerly chose a new bag and some books. The same goes for Aisyah, a third-grade student from Jakarta, who bought similar supplies.
“I’m so happy to be able to buy a bag and books. I’ll use them for school. Thank you, Kak,” said Ayra innocently, carrying her new bag.
These moments are deeply meaningful, not only for the children but also for the older siblings from Dompet Dhuafa who witnessed firsthand how a simple experience can ignite new hope in the hearts of these children.
This is not the first time that Gramedia and Dompet Dhuafa have collaborated. Previously, they worked together to distribute Al-Qur’an waqf during Ramadan and Gramedia’s customer qurbani program. Shopping with orphans has also been carried out in similar programs in the past.
Regional Manager of Gramedia BSD, Elizabeth Driemirda (Ida), explained the rationale behind this collaboration. She stated that Gramedia cannot operate alone and therefore needs to involve various parties, including consumers. Gramedia also views Dompet Dhuafa as a trustworthy institution capable of managing programs effectively and targeting the intended beneficiaries.
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Furthermore, Ida, Elizabeth Driemirda’s nickname, said that this activity is part of Gramedia’s social responsibility to educate the nation.
“This is a form of our commitment, not only to fortunate children, but also to those who are less fortunate,” she added.
Currently, Gramedia is also opening registrations for the Happy Family Coloring Contest, which can be participated in by children and their families during the school holiday period.
“So, even though it’s school holiday, sharing and doing good deeds shouldn’t take a break,” said Ida.
Read also: Happy Family Colouring, an Almsgiving Event by Gramedia Lampung
General Manager of Resource Mobilization at Dompet Dhuafa, Ahmad Faqih Syarafaddin, said that Dompet Dhuafa has always focused on educational programs for children. Dompet Dhuafa has literacy and scholarship programs, from elementary school to university level. In addition, there are also vocational programs for young people so that they can immediately enter the practical world of work.
Faqih hopes that Gramedia customers also feel the spiritual value of this initiative. “By shopping, customers not only receive goods but also contribute to those in need. There is a spirit of giving that accompanies every transaction,” he concluded.
It’s not just about shopping; children also receive cash assistance for other needs. This program not only provides physical benefits but also inspires them to study harder and pursue their dreams.
At the end of the event, the children gathered and took selfies together. Their joyful faces were not only a sign of a pleasant day but also a symbol of hope. Hope that, despite being orphans and underprivileged, they have the same spirit and opportunities to look toward the future.
“May these children not only be happy today, but also grow up to be confident and enthusiastic learners,” concluded Faqih. (Dompet Dhuafa)
Text and Photos: Riza Muthohar
Editor: Dhika