COMMUNITY INITIATIVES
By bringing the community together, Malta Together aims to INFORM, INSPIRE, CONNECT and CREATE IMPACTFUL ACTION that will make Malta an even better place.
Through Our Community Initiatives Page, we wish to create awareness on the great work being done by NGOs, individuals and businesses around the Maltese Islands by showcasing the community initiatives that are out there providing support and help during these difficult times and beyond. From empowering the community and providing vital services to those in need, to improving the environment and enhancing local art, culture and heritage, each and every one of these initiatives is making a difference in the lives of thousands of people in Malta.
Click on the categories below to be inspired by these initiatives. If you have an initiative that is not listed below, please submit it here.
MENTAL HEALTH
FIDEM - HEAR TO HELP
Mental Wellbeing and Legal Aid Helpline
The Fidem Charity Foundation have set up a helpline operating every day from 09:00 to 19:00. The helpline is there to support anyone experiencing mental wellbeing or legal concerns due to the impact of COVID-19 on their everyday lives.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 9932 0977
OASI FOUNDATION
Helping to prevent the widespread of addiction
The OASI Foundation was founded with the aim to prevent widespread addiction and to offer professional assistance to those who are victims of addiction, particularly drugs and alcohol. OASI also offers prevention services in the community and actively promotes living a healthy lifestyle through sports, exercise, culture and music. The OASI Foundation is asking whoever is feeling overwhelmed with emotions during this difficult time and would like to talk to someone, to contact OASI so they can talk freely and be supported.
WEBSITE
PHONE +356 21563333
WALK AND TALK
For Mental Health
Walk and Talk aims to raise awareness, reduce the stigma and support those suffering with mental health illness. A walk will be organised every month to support those suffering from Mental Health illness. There will be volunteers sharing their personal experiences and also support staff from The Richmond Foundation that will be able to guide those looking for further support.
KELLIMNI.COM
Free Online Support Service
Kellimni.com is an online support service run by trained staff and volunteers for Maltese people or other people who are currently living in Malta who feel the need to open up about what they have been going through. Information and support are given through the Kellimni.com website information pages or in real-time through smart messaging and 24/7 chat services. They have also started offering free online Support Groups every fortnight for individuals between the ages of 16 and 21.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 9947 8880
RICHMOND FOUNDATION
Free Helpline for individuals struggling with mental health difficulties
It is evident that the current COVID pandemic is leaving an impact on our wellbeing. We would like to encourage individuals who are struggling or experiencing any mental health difficulties to call our helpline, 1770. This service is free, and our professionals will be able to offer emotional support as well as practical guidance. The helpline is available between Monday and Friday, from 8am to 8pm.
VIDEO
PHONE 1770
HEALTH
ALS MALTA
Construction of a new and bigger DAR Bjorn
ALS Malta and Dar Bjorn offer services to more than 500 people affected by ALS and other Neurological conditions, completely free of charge. After the success of the first DAR Bjorn in Qormi, ALS Malta are building a second Community, a high tech medical nursing residence with state of the art facilities that will help provide a prolonged and better quality of life for neurological patients in Malta. This €5 million project is in its construction phase and funds are needed to finish and launch the project by end 2021.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 7920 9420
HOSPICE MALTA
Providing Palliative Care Services
Hospice Malta’s primary role is to provide and promote palliative care services free of charge to patients suffering from cancer, motor-neuron disease, end-of-life, cardiac, respiratory, renal and liver diseases. Today Hospice Malta helps more than 1,300 families per year. Hospice Malta is currently raising funds for a brand-new complex which will enable them to continue to offer and improve their palliative services. An 11,000 square metre property, which was handed over to Hospice Malta by the Archdiocese of Malta, will become Malta’s first Hospice Complex.
WEBSITE
KIDS, YOUTH & THE FAMILY
Aġenzija Żgħażagħ
Online Youthwork Services
Aġenzija Żgħażagħ provides young people with the time and space to make friends, learn in new ways and develop their talents through their regional youth services and their extensive empowerment programme. They now have online youthwork services - a new way of contacting, staying in touch and supporting young people, as well as a ‘Youth of Gozo’ project, which provides young Gozitans with an online platform where they can find different types of information, opportunities and activities to keep them engaged.
WEBSITE
HAPPY PARENTING MALTA (FOR HAPPIER CHILDREN)
Weekly Social Club
HAPPY PARENTING - MALTA (For Happier Children) is dedicated to raising awareness on Parental Alienation in Malta through awareness, education, intervention and one cohesive voice. The organisation has opened a social club at the Mosta Local Council, which is open every Friday from 16:00 to 19:00. The aim of the social club is to bring people together, while holding various workshops run by professionals, including Maltese literature sessions, arts, sculptures and crafts workshops, such as painting and Ganutell, and discussions on useful topics. Call on +356 77603330 to book your space.
PHONE: +356 77603330
LIFETIME MALTA
Masks Challenge
Children aged 7-17 are asked to create an original Covid19 mask, to deliver it to a collection point with an accompanying message. The masks and the message will then be distributed to children in need or disadvantaged via the Millennium Chapel. The masks will be judged with the possibility of winning attractive prizes. Competition ends August 30th.
WEBSITE
BIRDLIFE MALTA
Connect with Nature from Home
BirdLife Malta are providing free educational resources to help children learn academic subjects through nature at home and for families to have fun discovering the wildlife on their doorstep! In these resources, you can also experience our virtual tour of Is-Simar Nature Reserve, aimed at Year 3 social studies fieldwork. On a weekly basis, they will be sending out new resources in a newsletter to our contact lists and sharing on their social media.
RESOURCES
THE QUARANTINE COMPANION
A platform for parents, educators and caregivers
The Quarantine Companion is a Facebook group that was created to provide a platform for parents, educators and caregivers to share experiences and suggestions on how to entertain, engage and educate their children from home, throughout the coronavirus crisis. The group also features ideas which people of all ages can benefit from, with its different posts tagged and organised into ‘topics’ by age-group, in order to facilitate its use. The members of The Quarantine Companion also provide a sense of ‘companionship’ to one another thanks to their shared support of, respect for and sensitivity towards each other during these challenging times.
WE CONNECT BY FIDEM CHARITY FOUNDATION
Supporting you throughout the pandemic and beyond
We Connect is an innovative online platform providing a variety of free tools and support to help people look after their emotional and mental wellbeing. The website includes a Help Centre for immediate support as well as legal aid; a Wellbeing section for guidance on physical and mental wellbeing; a Seniors Hub with support, activities and information for the elderly; as well as an Arts and Education Hub that features engaging educational and cultural content and online activities.
WEBSITE
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
INVISIBLE HANDS MALTA
Delivery of food and essential supplies to those in need
Invisible Hands Malta is a group of over 300 volunteers based in Malta that are willing to help elderly people and people in need, by providing free services, such as the delivery of food and essential supplies. The Invisible Hands online platform connects the ones in need with the volunteers that are offering to help. They are also working closely with NGOs to provide them with volunteers when they need.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 2166 9169
NANDILU
Spreading love through organic T-shirts
ST JOHN RESCUE CORPS MALTA
Boosting the health response in communities across the country
St John Rescue Corps is a uniformed voluntary organisation, operating in civil protection and humanitarian aid. St John Rescue Corps volunteers are putting themselves at the disposal of the national authorities to help deal with the spread of COVID-19. Since the first case appeared on our islands, St John immediately began mobilising its volunteers by getting prepared to serve in different eventualities which may necessitate our intervention. They are also collaborating with other charities to ensure that food supplies reach families in need at these very testing times.
WEBSITE
JACOB'S BREW
Pay it forward
Jacob's Brew is a social café that aims to pay it forward to others less fortunate or those in need. Receipts are stamped so they may be passed on to a family or person in need of support, who can then visit the café, where they will be offered a free pot of coffee or tea and support from Survivors Malta. Jacob's Brew also donate a percentage of their revenue to Survivors Malta, and funds collected are used to initiate other projects to help families facing trauma.
WEBSITE
SOS MALTA
Kantuniera – Reviving the Community Feeling
Kantuniera Malta is a project aimed at getting people to talk about society and what happens in society. It provides an online space for the community to create and connect solutions for our future, while also reviving the community feeling and appreciating the work individuals and organizations do to try and improve what happens in our community.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 2124 4123
YOU SAFE MALTA
A Community Support Platform
YouSafe Page is a Community Support Platform created in view of the fast developments nationally related to the Covid19 pandemic. 68 Facebook Groups are linked with the Page, one for each Local Council, managed and moderated independently by the respective Local Council team. The Platform will enable the strong Local Councils’ team of over 500 people, to keep in contact with their community at all times during the crisis. It will ensure that our elderly are not forgotten, our neighbours are safe, and that our communities stay in good health. YouSafe will create a dialogue between the Council and its residents, will energise the business community, NGOs, civil society networks and individuals around particular ideas, initiatives and solution, to support communities to help each other.
ŻIBEL
FOOD & BASIC NEEDS
CATENA MEDIA
Delivering meals to hospital staff in Malta
With the help of Bolt Food, Catena Media’s in-house chef team, together with ComeOn and L&L Europe, have started delivering meals every day to St Luke’s hospital in Malta. The team of chefs are working in pairs to prepare meals for 65 hospital staff at the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Directorate, who are currently working 12-hour shifts.
WEBSITE
GOZO FOOD BANK
Foodbank in Gozo
A group of residents got together to fulfil a huge need in Gozo. We have no food bank and with Covid19, we foresaw that people were going to need assistance with getting fed. With assistance from our local council, we then got permission to go ahead - and Gozo Food Bank was formed.
PHONE: +356 79395855
MALTA TRUST FOUNDATION
Food Aid Project - Feeding those in need
The Malta Trust Foundation has set up a Food Aid Project with the support of the business community after it received an overwhelming number of requests from disadvantaged families who are among the worst hit by the coronavirus economic crisis. They have already received 3,000 requests for help as the economic crisis created by the COVID-19 pandemic further destabilises the vulnerable and poor in society.
THOMAS FRANKS
FEEDING COMMUNITIES
Feeding Hospital Staff and marginalised groups
Thomas Franks have provided over 4000 fresh and nutritious meals to three major hospitals across the island, including the Mater Dei Hospital, the Sir Paul Boffa Hospital and St Thomas Hospital. They have also been working with YMCA, JCI and Cross Culture International Foundation to deliver hot meals to the most vulnerable on the island. Thomas Franks have just received extra funding to be able to help feed vulnerable families across the island, by providing them with 700 meals a week.
PHONE: + 44 7538576162
FRIENDS OF EARTH
Malta Farm Map
This initiative aims to support local farmers to sell their local fruits and vegetables by connecting farmers and customers directly in this time of crisis.
Right now people want to support local farmers but are finding it hard to purchase from them. Customers can now locate their nearest friendly farmer and buy their fresh local produce directly. In that way, they will be promoting the local farming community which had already been struggling even before the current crisis.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 7996 1460
MALTA CHARITY CENTRAL
Connecting Charities with Companies and Individuals
Malta Charity Central is a Facebook Group that aims to connect charities with the many generous individuals or companies in Malta. This group is intended for use as a notice board for charities or individuals involved in any kind of voluntary work to advise of any particular requirements/needs they may have. It can also be used to announce and promote fund-raising events organised by charities. In a small community like ours, we believe that Facebook, together with our input, can make a big difference to make this existing gap very small in making us all aware of what is happening and what is needed locally.
THE ALFRED MIZZI FOUNDATION
Solidarity Meals
Solidarity Meals aims at providing a lifeline for those families and individuals struggling during the COVID-19 crisis. Solidarity Meals delivers hundreds of meals daily to distribution centres around the island where volunteers led by Caritas (Malta) ensure that the meals are taken to people in their homes. We welcome any help that comes our way, especially fresh fruit and vegetables.
VIDEO
WEBSITE
VICTORY KITCHEN
Nirbħu L-Ġuħ
Victory Kitchen is a food charity operating through a network of local restaurants, social workers, and logistics companies. These have joined forces to create a sustainable and long-term plan of delivering food to those families hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Victory Kitchen translates humble food into hope, faith, and courage for those who might otherwise remain hungry. To date, Victory Kitchen has helped 6,784 families by providing 19,746 meals.
WEBSITE
DONATE NOW
CaterEssence
Chefs volunteer to “STAY IN THE KITCHEN” to support elderly homes
A team of 20 chefs including support staff, employees of CaterEssence, have volunteered to live at the company’s Central Processing Unit (CPU) in Qormi for two weeks to reduce their external exposure to the COVID-19 and help ensure continued and uninterrupted production of over 5,000 meals a day distributed to the 12 care homes. These include 9 care homes operated by CareMalta and their respective staff, currently undergoing a similar ‘live in’ initiative.
WEBSITE
SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE
WITH A DISABILITY
ID-DAR TAL-PROVIDENZA
Residential Services to People with Disabilities
Id-Dar tal-Providenza was founded with the aim of offering individualised residential services to Persons with Disabilities in a family-like environment. Id-Dar tal-Providenza currently hosts approximately hundred and fifteen persons and also offers respite services on a regular basis to families of persons with disabilities.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 21464915
OPENING DOORS
Involving adults with intellectual disabilities in artistic sector
Opening Doors Association is a non-governmental, not-for-profit arts organisation that works for the active involvement of adults with intellectual disabilities in the artistic sector. They run performing arts sessions in dance, theatre and music, produce performances and organise Open-Air Jams in various localities in Malta and Gozo. Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, OD’s Music, Dance and Theatre sessions are being continued through video conferencing, phone or social media.
WEBSITE
INSPIRE MALTA
Resources For Individuals On The Autism Spectrum
These times of uncertainty can bring disruption to our usual lifestyle, and this can be overwhelming for those on the autism spectrum. Inspire Foundation has put together a number of resources that can help parents/guardians deal with this situation. This page is open to the public and contains resources which can guide with explaining the current phenomenon to persons on the autism spectrum, as well as guides on a number of activities that can be done within the home.
WEBSITE
THE ARTS
ARTZ ID
Iniala Hotel commissioning art from Malta based artists
ARTZ ID has launched a COVID-19 support online art shop to help artists sell their work during these challenging times. The platform offers free delivery, promotions and new ways for artists and galleries to reach their audience online. The online shop showcases over 50 works at a time, selling from 100 - 680 euros.
ARTZ ID is a project supported by Arts Council Malta
WEBSITE
DO SOMETHING GOOD
QuarantArt
Launched by DoSomeThingGood, QuarantArt aims to encourage people to use creativity to express themselves through Art. Members of the QuarantArt Facebook Group can share their artwork with one another and will also be given the opportunity to exhibit their creations at the For Good Creativity Hub, which will be opening in St Julian’s later this year. The QuarantArt project also plans to launch initiatives which provide opportunities for the artists to generate income through their artwork during these difficult times.
OUTDOOR ARTISTS
Online Creatives Networking Evenings
Sponsored by the MCVS SIS Scheme, “Connections – Creatives Networking Evenings” is a series of networking events which caters for creative practitioners and culture lovers. Each event features a guest speaker who shares tips on a specific topic, such as preparing for a performance or creating an inclusive exhibition. These topics vary every month to cater for different artistic disciplines. The events, which are currently being held through Zoom, are free of charge.
AWARDS &
FUNDING
ARTS COUNCIL MALTA
Malta Arts Fund - Project Support Grant
The Project Support Grant supports the development and production of high-quality artistic projects, which have innovation, quality and artistic development as a primary aim. Each project may be allocated a maximum of EUR 20,000. The Grant is open to individuals, groups and/or organisations.
WEBSITE
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EU PARLIAMENT
Calls For Proposals
European Parliament has launched grants to co-finance actions aimed at promoting the role of the EP and supporting citizens’ democratic engagement. The principal objective of this call for proposals is to contribute to raise citizens’ awareness of the role and democratic values of the European Union by promoting strategic engagement with EU citizens via three different channels: civil society engagement, community engagement and youth engagement. An indicative amount of € 3.3 million will be available for grants under this call for proposals. Applications close September 30th.
WEBSITE
MALTA COUNCIL FOR THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR
Voluntary Organisations Funding Opportunities
Various funding opportunities for Voluntary Organisations (VOs) are available through the Malta Council for Voluntary Sector and other funding schemes. Currently, these include a Voluntary Organisations Emergency, a Civil Society Fund and a NGO Co-Financing Fund. The Malta Council for Voluntary Sector is also holding meetings with VOs from various sectors to discuss and understand the situation of VOs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 2248 1110
ZAAR CROWDFUNDING
Great Ideas Funded
ZAAR believe that great ideas should go far, and it is their mission to provide the space for that to happen. ZAAR is a donation/reward-based crowdfunding platform, to promote entrepreneurship in Malta and support local start-ups. ZAAR offers an alternative to raise finance for their projects and business ideas.
WEBSITE
EESC CIVIL SOLIDARITY PRIZE
Rewarding Solidarity Initiatives To Tackle The Covid-19 Emergency And Its Consequences In Europe
The Civil Solidarity Prize will reward up to 29 not-for-profit initiatives carried out by natural persons, civil society organisations or private companies which aim to tackle the Covid-19 crisis and its manifold consequences. The overall aim of the prize is to raise awareness and increase visibility of the contribution that are being made to create a European identity and solidarity in a way that underpins the common values that are the foundation of European integration. The deadline for applications is 30 September 2020.
WEBSITE
THE MALTA SOCIAL IMPACT AWARDS (MSIA)
Funding and Support for Social Initiatives
The Malta Social Impact Awards (MSIA) provides opportunities for organisations and individuals to receive financial and non-financial support to develop and materialise an initiative that will have a positive social impact on Malta. Applications for MSIA 2020 will reopen in July.
WEBSITE
PHONE +356 7945 6988
MALTA COUNCIL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY & MALTA ENTERPRISE
COVID-19 Research & Development Fund
The Malta Council for Science and Technology and Malta Enterprise have been entrusted with the administration of a €5.3 million COVID-19 Research & Development Fund. Innovators are encouraged to submit proposals targeting innovative solutions to fight the current COVID-19 challenges as well as future ones. Eligible projects are those projects that have started on or after 1 February 2020, but not later than 31 December 2020. Deadline for submission is 30th November 2020.
WEBSITE
SUPPORT SERVICES
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
Helping each other recover from alcoholism
Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. There are no dues or fees for AA membership. Skype Online meetings are being held daily from 18:30 to 20:00 and can be accessed on this link – members from any AA group are invited to join us and newcomers are always welcome. To join, please contact Mark by email or whatsapp.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 7923 9264
GLUECKFALL
Helpline for Gamblers
Gluecksfall offers a helpline for Gamblers, and their loved ones – for English and Maltese-speaking individuals. The aim is to support people to not develop gambling addictions considering the current stressful climate. They are currently operating from 11 am to 12 pm every Thursday and 9 am to 10 am every Friday. Message them through their Facebook Page or send an email to book an appointment.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 7933 3374
MALTA SOCIETY OF THE BLIND
Service to blind and visually impaired persons
We provide services to blind and visually impaired persons in Malta. Due to the current situation, unfortunately, we are not making any house calls at the moment. However, we can still guide these persons on how they can be more independent, what gadgets they could use and where they can find these. We can also assist them in buying these gadgets.
WEBSITE
PHONE +356 79592337
MALTA COUNCIL FOR VOLUNTARY SECTOR
Support Services for Voluntary Organisations
The Malta Council for Voluntary Sector (MCVS) is asking all VOs operating essential services, namely those whose services are of a health, disability, social and humanitarian nature (but not only) to identify (a) which services can be stopped and (b) which services need to continue; and (c) what support may be required for essential services to continue? If a VO needs either their support directly or that they intervene with the authorities on a particular issue, get in touch with them through their hotline.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 7948 1120.
TRAFFICKING MALTA
Human, like you
Human, like you is a campaign intended to raise awareness on human trafficking. The trafficking of human beings is an international crime which involves millions of men, women and children who are being controlled by other individuals, mainly for the purpose of sex, labour or servitude. All countries in the world are affected by this crime, either as a destination for victims, a country of origin or a transit zone. Malta is no exception. The campaign aims to bring all these stakeholders together in order to keep the public aware of the ugly face of human trafficking.
WEBSITE
VIOLET SUPPORT MALTA
Online Support
Violet Support Online is an online emotional support service offered through free, one-to-one, real-time, confidential and anonymous interaction. The service is provided by professional staff, through chat and email, for people affected by gender-based violence. Chat support is available daily in English and Maltese on a 24-hour basis. It is also provided in Italian on Tuesdays, Serbian on Wednesdays and French on Thursdays, from 2 to 4 pm. E-mails are replied to within 48 hours.
WEBSITE
CRISIS RESOLUTION MALTA
Free 24/7 Crisis Line
Crisis Resolution Malta, Malta's only Crisis Team now celebrating its 10th anniversary, offers a free 24/7 support crisis line for people who are finding it hard to cope with daily psychological problems, isolation, quarantine, loneliness and economic hardship. In addition to this, in the uncertainty of the current situation, sufferers from anxiety and suicidal behaviour, among other mental health issues, are all at high risk & need support. We also offer online and onsite visits to intervene and resolve crises thanks to our multi-disciplinary team composed of experienced crisis professionals.
PHONE: +356 9933 9966
KARL VELLA FOUNDATION
The Wellness Pod goes online
Karl Vella Foundation provides educational and psychological support to children disrupted by a serious illness or a loss of a family member. Due to COVID-19, KVF Centre had to close until the situation returns to normal. KVF’s have transferred ‘The Wellness Pod’ programme online, so the children can still benefit from assistance in homework, psycho-educational group activities and one to one therapy. Furthermore, online psychological support to the children’s parents/legal guardians is also offered. Notwithstanding the current situation, KVF is still able to create a warm and welcoming environment where children can express themselves freely and feel part of a supportive and caring community.
WEBSITE
MALTA GAY RIGHTS MOVEMENT (MGRM)
Safe and Seen Education Toolkit
Inclusive education allows youths to be better informed, support their peers, and create a safe and welcoming environment that fosters understanding on a personal and social level. Launched recently by the Malta Gay Rights Movement, The Safe and Seen Education Toolkit is a project consisting of a series of educational tools on LGBTIQ topics created for educators. This toolkit includes structured workshops, a trivia board game, and two explanatory videos.
WEBSITE
SUPPORTING 1 ANOTHER (S1A)
Supporting people who live with diabetes
Supporting 1 Another (S1A) is an online platform which aims to raise awareness of type 1 diabetes within the community as well as support people who live with diabetes. S1A's founder, Rachel Portelli, continues to create new projects for people living with this chronic illness as well as the rest of the community, including launching a book 'Special 1'. Although Rachel is not a healthcare professional, she has over 23 years of lived experience and is more than willing to talk to you during this difficult time.
WEBSITE
VICTIM SUPPORT
Free online support for any victim of crime over the age of 18
Victim Support Malta (VSM) is a registered Non-Governmental Organisation which provides support and assistance to victims of crime, such as theft and burglary, domestic violence, sexual assault, harassment, discrimination and cybercrime.
WEBSITE
PHONE +356 2122 8333
SUPPORT FOR
MIGRANTS
JRS - JESUIT REFUGEE SERVICE MALTA
COVID19 EMERGENCY APPEAL
JRS Malta have set up a COVID-19 Emergency Appeal to support forced migrants affected by the pandemic. This situation has dealt a further blow to those who were already struggling to survive, particularly those who cannot access financial support from the state. With your support, we can support vulnerable individuals in the community by helping with basic necessities and emergency living expenses.
WEBSITE
HAL FAR OUTREACH
Support for Asylum Seekers, Refugees and Migrants
Hal Far Outreach (HFO) is a non-profit organisation that helps empower those who seek refuge in Malta, with a specific focus on the people residing in and around the Open Centers in Hal Far. Hal Far Outreach offers various community and support initiatives, including weekly online Beginner and Pre-Intermediate English lessons through Zoom for asylum seekers, refugees and migrants in Malta, as well a drop-in center where information and support is provided in a safe and welcoming environment (open Mondays and Wednesdays, 09:30 - 13:00).
WEBSITE
MOAS
Malta Mask Project
MOAS is calling on volunteers across Malta to come together to make homemade masks for vulnerable migrants and asylum seekers on the island to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and ensure everyone in our community remains protected. Over 6,000 masks have been made by MOAS volunteers, but the demand for masks for vulnerable groups on the island remains and MOAS is therefore launching a second round of their mask project. All the material, as well as a pattern, will be provided for volunteers.
WEBSITE
UNHCR MALTA
Coursera – free online courses for refugees
With over 24 million learners worldwide, Coursera is the largest open online education provider. Coursera partners with 160+ top universities across 25 countries to offer more than 1,800 open online classes and specializations (packaged series of courses) in topics ranging from computer science and data science to business and psychology. Coursera for Refugees offers free online courses run by universities from around the world to refugees. If you have refugee status, subsidiary protection status, or asylum seeker status in Malta and are interested in these courses, get in touch with UNHCR for more information.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 9969 0080
JRS - JESUIT REFUGEE SERVICE MALTA
#DO1THING - Hope For Refugees
On World Refugee Day, JRS reflect on the 70.8 million people who have been forced to leave their homes and build their lives elsewhere. In the process, they make extraordinary efforts to survive long and difficult journeys. It is easy to feel helpless and in awe of the weight which refugees have to carry daily. However, there are always opportunities to bring hope, and to act in solidarity with refugees by taking small but concrete steps. Each day this week, JRS will be sharing ideas as to how.
KOPIN MALTA
Empowering Communities
Kopin is committed to supporting marginalised communities, including immigrants. Together with other social NGOs, Kopin is trying to address challenges such as homelessness, lack of basic goods, lack of access to (online) education and other needs exacerbated by the current pandemic. Since 2018, Kopin has also been implementing the project “REST THB: Research, Support and Tools for the Fight against Trafficking in Human Beings in Malta, with a particular Focus on Refugees”. This project aims to shed more light on this crime, focusing on the victims and survivors and providing information about the risks of human trafficking to those that live at the margins of Malta’s society, in refugee open centres as well as in the communities.
WEBSITE
UNHCR
The UN Refugee Agency
As part of our reaction to COVID-19, the UNHCR has created a Facebook group for refugees, asylum-seekers and migrants in Malta. On this group you will find accurate information about COVID-19; guidance on how to protect yourself and people around you from the virus, and the latest news from the local authorities. All information is translated in French, Tigrinya, Somali, Arabic, English and Bangla.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 9969 0080
SUPPORT
FOR THE ELDERLY
ADOPT A GRANDPARENT MALTA
A volunteer programme to help lonely seniors
The elderly are one of the most vulnerable people during the Covid-19 pandemic, not just because of the risks of infection, but also because of the impact of isolation on their mental health. Older people who may not have family will be left completely alone, with no social contact at all. Missio Malta and Newsbook.com.mt have partnered to combat this by introducing the Adopt a Grandparent scheme. We’re pairing the lovely elderly people living in the community and in care homes together with caring individuals who want to help combat loneliness.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 2122 2001
ĊENTRU TBEXBIX
Support Line - We are here for You
If you have special needs, questions about support services or you live alone and you need to talk, phone us. We can guide you to the services you need and listen to you; we are here for you.
WEBSITE
PHONE:
+356 9928 1566
+356 7909 5448
+356 7780 5130
BRONJA
Bringing People Closer
Bronja is a service provided by Prisms Malta in collaboration with Yousafe. The service links together young people with the elderly by providing a phone call a day. Having a friend to support the elderly, helping out and offering help is needed at this time. Let your neighbours, family and friends know about this. If they are not online, give them a call. No one should be alone at this time!
WATCH OUR VIDEO
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STEP UP FOR PARKINSON'S
Movement Classes
Movement classes tailor-made for either elderly, People with Parkinson's disease and their carer and children. The classes are a mix of different dance techniques, yoga and breathing techniques, depending on the person and his/her needs.
WEBSITE
PHONE: +356 9920 0822
CAREMALTA
CareMalta homes for the elderly
CareMalta opened its first residential home, Casa Arkati, in 1993 and over the years has brought comfort, peace of mind and effective solutions to hundreds of Maltese families interested in residential care for their elderly relatives. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, 841 CareMalta employees have been living alongside their residents in a bid to keep them both safe and happy.
WEBSITE
NATURE &
THE ENVIRONMENT
ECOMARKET MALTA
Free Monthly Online Events
Eco Market Malta works in the field of Environmental Sustainability by promoting Eco friendly products and a Zero Waste lifestyle. Eco Market Malta believes that their message of environmental sustainability remains important, now more than ever and so they are now organising a series of virtual events held every month with a different theme.
WEBSITE
NATURE TRUST MALTA
Conservation of Maltese Nature
Nature Trust Malta is committed to the conservation of Maltese Nature by promoting environmental awareness, managing areas of natural and scientific interest, and lobbying for effective environmental legislation. Nature Trust is constantly growing and expanding into areas new and old. With each step, they need more and more hands. The NGO is currently looking for volunteers to help in their Tree Nursery, as well as volunteers for Wildlife Rescues.
WEBSITE
WAVE OF CHANGE
Empowering People to Take Action To Reduce Plastic Waste
The Wave of Change empowers people to take action in their everyday life to reduce plastic waste in Malta and make waves in changing the amount of plastic that ends up in our beautiful seas. Athletes, swimmers and other wavemakers are taking on extraordinary challenges to raise awareness about how single-use toxic plastics are affecting the Maltese seas. This year, Neil Agius will swim 100km from Sicily to Malta to support this initiative. The swim will be one out of a number of events taking place during the week, including several beach clean ups.
WEBSITE
ŻIBEL
Distributing shoes and clothing to those in need
Żibel have teamed up with Soles4Souls, which aims to wear out poverty by distributing shoes and clothing to homeless shelters, disaster-relief areas, refugee centres and families in need all over the world. Żibel are exporting thousands of garments to Soles4Souls, which will be used either in the disaster relief programme or be used in the micro enterprise programme to help lift families out of poverty through sustainable business. Additionally, Żibel will be releasing schemes for schools and businesses to also collaborate with them for CSR.
WEBSITE
FARM THE CITY
Training young farmers in the city
Funded under the Erasmus+ programme, Farm the City is a new project that helps students in Malta gain the knowledge and skills on how to use the space around them to produce basic crops. A variety of videos and written explanations displayed on their website and their mobile application provide information on crops that can be grown in Malta, explanations on how to grow these crops, as well as interesting recipes.
WEBSITE
QLZH FOUNDATION
A greener,cleaner and healthier planet
The QLZH Foundation focus on environmental, educational and adequate housing causes that stretch from Malta to Africa. Their Plastic Police Squad educates bathers on local beaches about the harms of single-use plastic, while collecting incorrectly disposed rubbish as they go along. This is the third year running that the QLZH Foundation is organising the Plastic Police drive which visits eight beaches per year. On the 23rd of July, the Foundation is also hosting its annual Ocean Bed Clean-Up in Xemxija. Get in touch to join any of their activities.
WEBSITE
WASTESERV MALTA LTD
Free Stackable Waste Separation Containers
Wasteserv is distributing stackable waste separation containers to all local NGOs, Educational Institutions and Micro Businesses. Each set is made up of 4 bins: One of each for Mixed Waste, Mixed Recyclables, Sanitary Waste and Glass. NGOs and Educational Institutions can apply here, whilst Micro Business can fill this form.
WEBSITE
ANIMAL WELFARE
AAA - ASSOCIATION FOR ABANDONED ANIMALS
Help rescued dogs enjoy a safe place to live until re-homed
The Association for Abandoned Animals is a non-profit organisation established as a dog shelter to provide rescued dogs with a safe place to live until being re-homed. Due to the COVID-19 situation, it has become much harder to manage the Sanctuary both financially and operationally. In addition, people can no longer visit the sanctuary and so the food and monetary donations are considerably low compared to the norm.
RAR - REAL ANIMAL RIGHTS
Boosting Animal Welfare
in Malta
RAR have come together in support of proposals to boost Animal Welfare in Malta. Moira Delia, Alison Bezzina and Romina Frendo have joined forces to become the voice of animals, to raise funds to empower feeders and to respond to any emergencies, while also neutering and rehoming stray animals. They are constantly appealing for the help of more volunteers, especially now when animals depend on us more than ever before.
REHOME A HORSE MALTA
Pet support & Feed bank
RAHM has set up a ‘help team’ for anybody who is unwell, in quarantine or unable to care for their animals, both domestic and farm pets, during this hard time. You can help by offering to walk, feed or care for someone’s pet in need; or contributing towards food, bedding or medicinal supplies for the animals. If you think you can help in any way, please feel free to contact us.
MSPCA
Malta Society for the protection and care of animals