Volleyball marathon for Id-Dar tal-Providenza kicks off with €20,000 donation
Prime Minister announces new disability and vulnerable adults laws will come into force on Friday
The annual volleyball marathon in aid of Id-Dar tal-Providenza got under way on Thursday evening with a €20,000 government donation, on the eve of two new laws aimed at strengthening the rights of persons with disabilities and vulnerable adults.
Forty players, chosen from 60 applicants, will play volleyball continuously for 53 hours in the 16th edition of the Bank of Valletta Volleyball Marathon which is being held for the first time at the Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre.
Prime Minister Robert Abela pledged the donation from the Social Causes Fund as he announced that two new laws will come into force on Friday marking “an important step towards a fairer and more inclusive society”.
The Personal Autonomy Act reinforces every person's right to make their own decisions with the necessary support, and the Protection of Vulnerable Adults Act will strengthen intervention in cases of abuse or mistreatment.
The marathon was inaugurated by the President of Malta and will close on Saturday at 11pm.
Myriam Spiteri Debono said the annual event brings together resilience, endurance and, above all, the generous spirit of the Maltese people.
“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,” the president added.
The marathon was inaugurated by the President of Malta Myriam Spiteri Debono as Prime Minister Robert Abela announced a €20,000. Photo: Dar tal-ProvidenzaShe 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.
Mgr Martin Micallef, Director of Id-Dar tal-Providenza, pointed out that the marathon is a “powerful example of how solidarity and sport can come together to make a tangible difference in the lives of others”.
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.
The Home requires approximately €8 million annually to continue offering its service and live up to its mission.
Bank of Valletta chief executive officer Kenneth Farrugia said supporting Dar tal-Providenza is a “cause which is very close to our hearts”.
The Marathon is being broadcasted live on all the main local TV stations.
Visitors to the marathon will enjoy a “vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere” with a full programme of entertainment.
On Saturday at 6.30am a 5km charity run will start from the area beside the MFCC tent (North Entrance). Later that day, from 12pm to 5pm, a DJ Takeover will feature several young DJs .
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