‘Dar Kenn Għal Saħħtek’, a facility for the treatment of patients with eating disorders and weight problems such as Anorexia and Bulimia will be inaugurated today by President George Abela.
The €2.5m facility has been set up by the Community Chest Fund.
It is housed in a former services building - the Nurses Quarters near the former Mtarfa Hospital - which was dilapidated and has been transformed to its former glory. It was built in 1924.
The Community Chest Fund said the facility will provide treatment in the protected environment of an acute hospital stay. This treatment can be a viable alternative to prolonged stay in hospital, an environment that is not conducive to rehabilitative intervention in these cases. The length of stay at the residential home will vary from three to a maximum of five months. Treatment will be free of charge.
A foundation called ‘Fondazzjoni Kenn Għall-Saħħtek’ has been set up between the Malta Community Chest Fund and the Ministry of Health to manage and run the residential home. The Foundation is chaired by Dr Anton Grech.
The Malta Community Chest Fund was assisted by medical professionals from the Umbria region. They provided the expertise required to customise the facility to suit the specialised treatment that will be provided to people with eating disorders and obesity.
An open day will be held tomorrow and on Sunday from 10a.m. to 4 p.m.