The Minister for European Funds and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme, Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, visited the Caritas Community Centre facility in Blata l-Bajda, a modern and accessible centre that was financed through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
This project, with a total investment of €4.2 million of which €2.8 million was financed by the EU, brings together all non-residential services and administrative operations of Caritas Malta under one roof. The facility provides a more efficient, structured and professional environment that improves access and quality of services offered to the most vulnerable people in the community. Thanks to this investment, 600 more vulnerable people are now receiving better and more adequate services.
During his visit, the Minister praised the work done at this centre, which strengthens national action to address complex social challenges. He reiterated that this is one of the largest investments in social infrastructure made in the country through European funds, and that it is making a real difference in the lives of many people. “This centre does not just offer services; it is a space that rebuilds people’s trust and dignity,” said Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi. “When we see the change that is being made through European funds and the voluntary work of Caritas, we truly understand the value of sustainable social investment. An investment that changes people’s lives and not just infrastructure.”
The Minister also mentioned how European funds are continuing to support Caritas Malta’s mission through other projects. Among them is the Caritas Tal-Ibwar Centre project, funded by the European Social Fund (ESF), which with an investment of just over €100,000 has improved educational support for adolescents with problematic substance use. The programmes introduced include training in ICT and digital media, and offer a more modern and holistic educational approach to give these young people the best opportunity to reintegrate in society in a healthy way.
The minister also referred to the Stepping Stone project, which aims to provide a safe and recreational environment for women and their children, who have completed a rehabilitation programme, while also being extended to young people and adolescents who have successfully completed specialised programmes at the Tal-Ibwar Centre. This initiative offers a protected and stable space so that these people do not end up in toxic environments again and can build a safer future.
Director of Caritas Malta, Anthony Gatt, expressed the organisation’s appreciation for the continued support of European and Government funds. “These projects give us the possibility to continue providing professional and high-level services to anyone who turns to us for help,” said Mr Gatt. “Thanks to these investments, we can update our methods, increase our capacity and continue to be present for the vulnerable community of our country.”
Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi concluded by thanking Caritas workers and volunteers for their commitment and dedication, and stressed that the Government will continue to prioritise projects that strengthen social infrastructure and promote inclusion. He reiterated that through the European funds of the new programme, the country will continue to strengthen these services so that no one is left behind, while continuing to build a fairer and more inclusive community.
Photos (DOI/MFI)
