Archive for category: News

Residents from Id-Dar tal-Providenza were part of group of persons with disability who took part in a four-day annual pilgrimage in Lourdes organised by UMTAL, the Maltese Association for the Transport of the Sick to Lourdes, in what was described by the Archdiocese of Malta as “an extraordinary experience of faith”.

The pilgrimage was led by UMTAL spiritual director Fr Joe Mizzi, assisted by four other priests who tended to the spiritual needs of the patients and pilgrims who took part.

The group took part in various religious functions, including the international mass and another mass in Maltese, after which they went on to the Way of the Cross, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and the evening procession known as the Aux Flambeaux. The pilgrims also took part in celebrations including the sacrament of confession and the anointing of the sick.

UMTAL is a voluntary organisation established in 1931 under the patronage of the Archbishop of Malta. Since then, it has made pilgrimages to Lourdes possible for people who find it difficult to visit the shrine because of health problems.

On Thursday, 16 July 2026, Her Excellency Dr Myriam Spiteri Debono, President of Malta, officially inaugurated the 16th edition of the BOV Volleyball Marathon in aid of Id-Dar tal-Providenza. This year’s marathon is being held for the first time at the Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre (MFCC), Ta’ Qali (North Gate), and will come to an end on Saturday, 18 July 2026, at 11:00 p.m.

Forty players, selected from more than sixty applicants, began the challenge of playing volleyball continuously for 53 hours in support of a noble cause.

In her opening address, H.E. Dr Myriam Spiteri Debono, President of Malta, said that this annual event brings together resilience, endurance and, above all, the generous spirit of the Maltese people. She went on to say that behind Providence lies the great heart of a people who know how to support and to love. The President added: “This is a manifestation that makes our people unique in the solidarity they extend to others. Id-Dar tal-Providenza depends greatly on solidarity and generosity.” She described Id-Dar tal-Providenza as a pillar of social welfare in our country, noting that it has always been at the forefront of ensuring that those in need of support are treated with dignity.

Prime Minister Robert Abela said that this Marathon is a witness to the strong spirit of volunteering and solidarity that distinguishes the people of Malta and Gozo. He thanked the athletes, volunteers, staff, and the management of Id-Dar tal-Providenza for their invaluable service, and announced a donation of €20,000 from the Social Causes Fund to further strengthen this important work.

Dr Abela noted that the Government is committed to strengthen the rights and protection of persons with disabilities and vulnerable adults. He referred to the Personal Autonomy Act, which reinforces every person’s right to make their own decisions with the necessary support, and the Protection of Vulnerable Adults Act, which will strengthen intervention in cases of abuse or mistreatment. These laws will become in force as from Friday, 17 July 2026.

He emphasized that the coming into force of these laws marks an important step towards a fairer and more inclusive society.

Mgr Martin Micallef, Director of Id-Dar tal-Providenza, emphasised that this 53-hour continuous volleyball marathon is a powerful example to how solidarity and sport can come together to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. He stressed that true solidarity begins by recognising the person first and offering the support needed for each individual to live with dignity. He added that Id-Dar tal-Providenza remains committed to further developing increasingly personalised, community-based services that respond to the needs and aspirations of the people it supports.

Mgr Micallef expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the 40 players, the volunteers, Bank of Valletta, the main sponsor, all the sponsors, the media, the Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre (MFCC), and everyone who, in one way or another, contributed to making this marathon possible.

He concluded by appealing to the people of Malta and Gozo to continue supporting Id-Dar tal-Providenza through this marathon. The Home requires approximately €8 million annually to continue offering its service and live up to its mission.

The Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Valletta, Kenneth Farrugia, said, “Supporting Id-Dar tal-Providenza is a cause that is very close to our hearts. The BOV Volleyball Marathon is a powerful demonstration of what can be achieved when a community comes together in solidarity for a worthy cause. We are proud to support this initiative through the BOV Foundation and to contribute towards the invaluable work carried out by Id-Dar tal-Providenza. Our contribution goes beyond financial support. Through our employee volunteering programme, our people regularly dedicate their time and energy to causes such as this, reflecting our belief that meaningful impact is created through both giving and active engagement in the communities we serve.”

Also present for the official inauguration were the Hon. Dr Michael Falzon, Minister for Social Policy and the Family; the Hon. Dr Miriam Dalli, Minister for Energy, the Environment and the Regeneration of the Grand Harbour; the Hon. Dr Byron Camilleri, Minister for Education and Sport; the Hon. Dr Malcolm Paul Agius Galea, Minister for Culture, the Arts and National Heritage; the Hon. Graziella Galea, Shadow Minister for Inclusion, Hon. Graham Bencini, Shadow Minister for Opposition for Sport and Mr Kenneth Farrugia, Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Valletta, the Marathon’s principal sponsor.

The Marathon is being broadcasted live on all the main local TV stations.

Visitors to the Marathon at the MFCC can look forward to a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere, with the new venue providing an excellent opportunity for the BOV Volleyball Marathon to reach new levels of success.

The Malta Arts Council is supporting the event and is working with the organisers to present a high-quality entertainment programme throughout the three evenings. Lara & The Jukeboys performed Thursday evening, Versatile Brass & Ensemble on Friday, while Saturday’s programme will culminate with Classic Rock Night featuring the Spiteri Lucas Band.

On Saturday at 6:30 a.m., a 5K charity run will start from the area beside the MFCC tent (North Entrance). Every participant will receive a specially designed commemorative medal. Registration is available at sabihlitaghti.org/5k.

On Saturday, from 12.00pm until 5:00 p.m., a DJ Takeover will feature several young DJs, including Miggy, Dodz, Izak, Riolo, Dom and Presko.

Throughout the Marathon there will also be a large Kids’ Area with attractions and activities for children, as well as a food court featuring Il-Forn tal-Għawdxi, Eeetwell and Frullado.

The NGO S.T.A.N.D., which works with young people with disabilities, will be exhibiting artwork created by its members at the entrance to the MFCC.

For further updates and information about the Marathon, visit sabihlitaghti.org.

The public can support Id-Dar tal-Providenza by making a donation through any of the following methods:

• €10 – 51602011
• €15 – 5170 2012
• €25 – 5180 2013
• €50 – 5190 2070
• €100 – 5130 2044
• Pledge Line: 2146 3686
• BOV Mobile: 7932 4834

Id-Dar tal-Providenza has announced ambitious plans for the upcoming edition of its annual fundraising volleyball marathon.

Now in its 16th edition, the BOV Volleyball Marathon will take place between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th July, and will, for the first time, be held at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali. The event will also be broadcast across all local television stations.

Organisers explained that the new venue will open up exciting opportunities for the event, while also making it more accessible and central for visitors.

“The needs and funds required for Id-Dar tal-Providenza to operate continue to grow, and finding ways to elevate our fundraising efforts is essential. Id-Dar tal-Providenza requires approximately €7.5 million annually to ensure the best possible quality of life for its residents.”

Since its establishment in 1965, Id-Dar tal-Providenza has been dedicated to providing personalised residential services for persons with disabilities, in a supportive environment. Today it is home to 115 residents. It also offers regular respite services to families of persons with disabilities, providing essential support that enables individuals to continue living within their family environment.

Last year, the BOV Volleyball Marathon raised a record €632,153. This milestone has inspired organisers to dream bigger and aim even higher for this year’s edition.

Id-Dar tal-Providenza believes it can count on the continued support of the Maltese community, whose love for Id-Dar tal-Providenza helps make this event a success year after year.”

 Player applications are now open online for those who wish to participate in the BOV Volleyball Marathon via https://tinyurl.com/volley4dtp-players2026

A classic car show organised by the Old Motors Club raised €4,300 in aid of id-Dar tal-Providenza on Thursday, a public holiday on the feast of St.Joseph. The event that took place at the Home’s Siġġiewi parking lot was very well attended.

Around 140 vintage cars, that cover more than a century of history, were on display.

Mgr Martin Micallef, Director of Id-Dar tal-Providenza  thanked the organisers, participants and the general public for their generosity and for the initiative.

European Parliament member, Dr Peter Agius attended the event and met the vintage car enthusiats whilst making a donation.

The club confirmed once again its commitment to continue its support of Id-Dar tal-Providenza as well as other charitable initiatives whilst promoting the rich motor cars heritage in Malta.

The amount of €2,125 was collected during the Vocal and Instrumental Concert by the band of the Armed Forces of Malta that took place on Friday, 28th November 2025 at the Metropolitan Cathedral of St. Paul in Mdina on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

The presentation was made by the Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta, Brigadier Clinton J. O’Neill to the Director of the Home, Mgr Martin Micallef who thanked the Brigadier for his continued encouragement and support of the now annual concert by the Armed Forces Band to coincide with the International Day of  Persons with Disability.

For the occasion of the Home’s 60th anniversary two special musical compositions were premiered: 60 Sena ta’ Storja: Id-Dar tal-Providenza by Mro. Nicholas Vella and Tama by Mro. Antoine Mercieca. The concert also included works by Johann Sebastian Bach, Richard Wagner, Frank Erickson, Lowell Mason, Morten Lauridsen, Peter A. Yon, Stephen Adams, Carl Coberg and another Maltese composer Tano Monseigneur.