The Development Planning Fund continues to bear its fruits for the wellbeing of society. A ‘Francisican Kitchen’ project in Valletta, which is being set up through an investment of €303,000 from the Planning Authority, is nearing completion, the Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning Aaron Farrugia said.
During a visit to the ongoing works, the Minister stated that recent reforms to the Development Planning Fund (DPF) seek to give rise to further green projects and encourage projects which improve quality of life. At the same time, social projects such as this one are just as important, and they are being financed by the same fund.
“Our vision for this fund is to invest in improved quality of life and wellbeing of families, citizens and residents, not only through environmental projects but also social ones. The project we are visiting today is particularly relevant as it is an example of PA investment where it is most needed and felt,” he said.
The project, led by the Malta’s Franciscan Order includes the setting up of a main hall which will be used as a dining area for people in need; a nearby room will be utilised for the preparation of the food, a small office, storage and small laundry and public convenience facilities.
Once open, the Franciscan Kitchen will operate three days a week but will eventually expand its operations to five days a week. The Soup kitchen will open its doors to everyone this autumn, to provide food to those who do not have access to it and encourage persons to socialise and gain confidence to participate in social life.
Architect Vincent Cassar, Chairperson of the Development Planning Fund said this project continues to show the Authority’s commitment to support public community projects which seek to improve the social and community life of residents within any given locality. “This project which is the brainchild of Fr Marcellino and the Franciscan Order serves not only as a place for people who are struggling to get a decent meal but gives people on the fringe of society precious time to respite and relax, where they feel safe and comfortable and are part of a community. This is a noble project.”
The Development Planning Fund was established in 2017 and has over the past two years financed up to €17.5 million in community projects across the Maltese islands. The fund promotes projects that embellish urban areas for the benefit of the wider residential community.
Minister Farrugia pointed out that the DPF financed 44 projects submitted by different local councils and NGOs – having a total budget of €6.4 million. These projects focus on green areas, public spaces, and community facilities.
