Rao currently has a capacity of 150 accommodation options that he wishes to offer to those who cannot afford house rent. "We have already placed 75 such men in these housing options spread across Al Quoz, Jebel Ali and Muhaisnah areas of Dubai," Rao told Naya Daur. He works in collaboration with major charities in Dubai, who refer the cases to Rao.
Rao further said that "If I step into their shoes, I cannot spend a night in the park, that too in the summer season. That very thought inspired me to take up this programme for workers."
"One of our companies - the property management division - deals with industrial housing accommodation. We decided to put this space to good use when I came across media articles that highlighted the plight of these homeless men," he said. The men are mostly from countries in Africa, including Ghana. Indian and Pakistani nationals have also benefitted from Rao's housing initiative.
Rao has already sheltered 75 homeless workers in the Al Quoz area. "We have received applications for 135 more, however, many of these men are due to return to their home countries, so we are awaiting confirmation from the charities," he explained. He has provided them with free Wi-Fi, bedding, blankets, bedsheets, and pillows.
"In one unit, we provide them with food and the other unit, social workers and the associated charities deliver food," he added. The housing is exclusively for men and not for women and families. "Many are seeking jobs, so they needed Wi-Fi. I went to the camps and set up a Wi-Fi connection. Someone wanted to eat eggs, so we got them some eggs and rice. These are simple things most of us take for granted, but to many people this is vital," he added.
Since most of the residents are looking to return to their home countries, Rao is also in the process of providing them with air tickets.
"If the need arises, we will add more units," he explained. Rao said, "The ongoing pandemic has hit everyone hard, especially those with no security to fall back on. The economic and income disparities have only increased in this time, with those dependent on daily wages being rendered homeless in massive numbers across the globe."
Rao added, "I felt heartbroken and if I would stand by and watch, I would feel very small as a human being and won't be able to stand in front of the creator. These are some very difficult times for all of us."
A beneficiary of the programme said, "I am very happy with this initiative as living outside in the summer is very difficult. It's very hot. I want to thank God and this company for providing me with a roof over my head."