Minister for Inclusion, Volunteering and Consumer Rights Julia Farrugia Portelli has launched the Small Initiatives Scheme (SIS) for voluntary organizations with an allocation of € 120,000. This scheme is one of the many funds managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS), which together amount to € 1.4 million.
Minister Farrugia Portelli pointed out that this scheme will see an increase of € 20,000 in the financial allocation from the previous year – a record allocation since the launch of this scheme eleven years ago. Through this scheme, 350 voluntary organizations have benefited during these eleven years. This figure means 350 tangible projects for the common good.
Minister Farrugia Portelli said that since the beginning of this scheme, dozens of voluntary organizations have carried out innovative projects in a tangible way that have touched people’s lives in a positive way. The Minister mentioned how schemes such as the SIS and other schemes that the government, together with the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) launches every year, are a strong recognition of the work done by voluntary organizations with for the benefit of the thousands of beneficiaries.
This scheme is aimed at encouraging projects by voluntary organizations in areas such as training courses for volunteers or the public, cultural and sporting events, publications and other projects related to the sector.
MCVS Chief Executive Mauro Pace Parascandolo said that, as a Council, in recent years, it has spurred the sector to grow while seeing that it has the proper appreciation for its work. He added that in addition to the appreciation, it is important that the voluntary sector is supported by funds and aid so that it can continue to support its work in our communities.
MCVS Deputy Chairman Robert Farrugia said that the funds managed by the Council are intended to support the voluntary sector in its diverse work, especially in those areas where there are no other funds to support them.
Voluntary organizations can apply by visiting the MCVS website at www.vofunding.org.mt. Applications are open until Friday, July 8, 2022.
