52 new community projects through funding from the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector

The Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) has distributed approximately €1.1 million in funds allocated for this year to 40 voluntary organisations and 12 local and regional councils to carry out 52 new projects. This follows a competitive process open to entities eligible under the Community Support Scheme (CSS), which was open to those who do not currently qualify for European Union funds under the LEADER programme. The projects include initiatives related to environmental protection and improvement, small-scale community projects that improve the quality of life in localities, as well as restoration and conservation interventions of public spaces, historical structures or cultural elements of value to the community. The grants to voluntary organisations were presented by the Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering Julia Farrugia, MCVS Chairperson Gertrude Buttigieg and MCVS CEO Mauro Pace Parascandalo, in the presence of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Inclusion and Volunteering Anthony Gatt and the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations Jesmond Saliba. Minister Julia Farrugia explained, “This investment is clear proof of our vision and political will to strengthen the country's social and community framework. From an initial allocation of €800,000, we have chosen to go beyond what was planned and increase the investment to over one million euros. This decision shows how much we believe in the value of volunteering and in the potential of our communities. This is not just an increase in funds, but a clear sign of political priorities that place people and their quality of life at the centre of our work.” "Through these projects, we are boosting initiatives that not only address immediate needs, but that build more sustainable, inclusive and resilient communities in the long term. We are determined to continue investing where needed, supporting those who work passionately at the local level, and ensuring that every euro goes to making a concrete difference in people's lives," said Minister Julia Farrugia. MCVS CEO Mauro Pace Parascandalo said, "It is gratifying to see more funds going directly to communities in a tangible way, and this is another clear example of how we all work together and succeed. This is with the direct participation of the organizations, local councils and regional councils that responded with all their might to the call and that will be implementing these projects for the benefit of society." It was also announced that the second call for proposals for this scheme, which will be issued on the MCVS portal, www.vofunding.org.mt , will be re-issued in the coming months. This will include guidelines for organisations to assist them in submitting their applications. Through this scheme, more than 900 voluntary organisations operating in one of 21 localities, together with the same 21 local councils and 4 regional councils, are eligible to obtain funds for projects or initiatives. Organisations applying for funds need to be registered and compliant with the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations. Photo (MIV)