2 min read
In Castille Square, the wife of the Prime Minister, Dr Lydia Abela launched the sixth edition of Rigal bi Mħabba, an initiative in favour of vulnerable children so that they too can receive a gift as a result of the love of the Maltese and Gozitan people during Christmas. The launch took place in the presence of the La Voix Harmonies choir, which year after year creates a song for this initiative that leaves a strong message of hope and solidarity. Dr Lydia Abela explained how the Rigal bi Mħabba initiative was born from a dream between her and her daughter Giorgia-Mae, but today the dream has turned into a movement that brings together thousands of people who together give joy to the children who are the most vulnerable in our society. She stressed that while many families enjoy Christmas in abundance, there are others who suffer or live in difficult circumstances. “Our wish is simple but meaningful, that every child has a gift under the Christmas tree and that no one feels forgotten,” said Dr Abela. Dr Abela explained that gifts can be left under the Christmas tree located in Castille Square between the 12th and 19th of December. She also announced that from the 15th of December to the 24th of December, the Square will be transformed into a Christmas Village with activities for families, traditional Christmas food and drinks, as well as local crafts. The closing of Rigal bi Mħabba will take place on Friday, 19th of December, with a day full of activities, including a musical performance by local talent, as well as a concert by the Armed Forces of Malta Band. Dr Abela also acknowledged the important role of local councils and schools that have come together again this year to contribute. She mentioned in particular her experience when she visited the Ġużeppina Deguara Primary School, where the children presented gifts that they had prepared themselves together with their teachers. During the launch, Dr Abela also announced that the Rigal bi Mħabba b’Differenza initiative in aid of animals, an initiative that was born together with Jake Vella and this year will be extended to Gozo as well, will be relaunched. She concluded by thanking the Ministry for Social Policy and Children’s Rights and all the disciplined bodies involved in the organisation and distribution of the gifts.