In a strong sign of solidarity, the people of Malta and Gozo once again rose to the challenge of being generous on the first day of the year, giving an impressive €1,540,278 during the annual Festa ta’ Ġenerożità in support of Dar tal-Providenza.
As in previous years, the televised marathon was held under a marquee erected in the car park of the Dar tal-Providenza in Siġġiewi. The on-air transmission started at 9:30 am with a morning Mass celebrated by Archbishop Charles Scicluna in the chapel and ended at midnight.
This year’s event marked the start of a special milestone for Dar tal-Providenza, which will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2025. In the past sixty years, the residence has offered a permanent home to 270 residents with disabilities, apart from much-needed respite services to hundreds more. This commitment to the delivery of quality, personalized care in a manner that respects the dignity and rights of its residents could only be realised through the continuous support of the Maltese and Gozitan communities.
Art Auction and Community Contributions
A 12-hour televised marathon was rounded off with words of thanks and encouragement by Martin Micallef, Director of Dar tal-Providenza. He expressed his hope that the spirit of generosity shown on New Year’s Day would spill over into the coming year for the benefit of others in need within Maltese society.
One of the evening’s highlights was an art auction, where paintings, sculptures, and ceramics were donated by both Maltese and international artists. This year, the auction was held online and raised €37,158.
In addition, Julia Farrugia Portelli, Minister for Inclusion, Voluntary Organisations, and Consumer Rights, represented Prime Minister Robert Abela and presented a €25,000 donation from the Maltese government’s Social Causes Fund.
Parish communities also played a significant role in this year’s success. Many parishes in Malta and Gozo organised special collections on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, contributing a combined €38,044 from Gozo parishes alone.
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