DUBAI: Dubai-based label Behnoode is the latest fashion house to join the fight against COVID-19. The Italian-born brand launched an online campaign to help fashion industry professionals, workers and laborers who are affected by the ongoing worldwide pandemic. “It is time for us to make a step and stand up for the whole fashion industry in the Middle East,” Behnood Javaherpour, who is the founder of Behnoode Foundation, a charitable organization that helps creative talents, said in a released statement. “Our collective efforts to save those who have been affected by the crisis will contribute to the sustainability of our industry. Now is the time to act as one, a fashion industry that is united for the betterment of all.” Individuals, who wish to receive help, can share their stories on Behnoode’s website. The founder will then select 20 requests, who will be subject to verification of their current status before receiving the grants. While people might think fashion is luxury, Behnoode believes it is a necessity. “Clothes are one of our basic human needs, it protects us from harms,” the designer said. “And as we have seen in these challenging times – creating masks, lab gowns, headbands, shoes and other protective gear – are one of the most important tools to protect us from the virus.”