OPR- Wednesday, 23rd June 2004, Valletta

• 17 Philanthropic Associations were presented with a total of Lm10,524
• 156 individuals were presented with Lm29,676, out of which Lm15,764 in help for specialised apparatus
• Total sum presented was that of Lm40,200

The President of Malta, H.E. Dr. Edward Fenech Adami and Mrs. Fenech Adami, today presented, on behalf of the Malta Community Chest Fund, various donations to philanthropic associations and individuals. The donations, consisting in financial aid, specialised apparatus and white goods, totalled the sum of Lm40,200.

17 philanthropic associations received a total of Lm10,524, namely,  Agenzija Sapport, Coeliac Association Malta, Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, Ghaqda Dilettanti Mudelli ta` Knejjes, Ghaqda Nazzjonali Genituri ta` Persuni b’Dizabilita`, Ghaqda Zjarat lill-Morda fl-Isptarijiet, Hbieb Agenzija Sapport, Kunsill Malti tal-Persuni b’Dizabilita`, Kunsill Socjo-Religjuz ta` Hal Farrug, The Ladies of Charity of St. Vincent de Paule, Maltese Society for Transportation of the sick to Lourdes, Mental Health Association, Merbha Bik, Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary, Osanna Pia, Porziuncola Retreat House and St. Joseph Home.

156 individuals benefited from donations totalling Lm29,676. Of these, Lm15,764 went towards procuring specialised apparatus including specialised wheelchairs, nebulisers, special buggies and beds and hoists.

President Fenech Adami said that for many years, the Community Chest Fund and the many voluntary workers have been treasuring the value of altruism.  He stated that the work of the MCCF and of the philanthropic institutions which are fully dedicated to those in need is an expression of solidarity “which is the main characteristic of the Maltese nation, a nation that is generous, a nation that recognizes the importance of living in a unified community.”