Fondazzjoni Sebħ inaugurated a newly refurbished children’s therapy room, on Tuesday 7 April 2026, marking an important milestone in the development of a comprehensive, trauma-informed system of care. What began in 2023 as a dream has since evolved into a model now recognised as a benchmark of excellence within residential services.
Through the Mindful@Home project, the Children in Need Foundation (CiN) joined forces with Sebħ to create a therapeutic care service within Sebħ’s residential homes. This service is built by a shared vision: to ensure that children in care receive timely, consistent, and professional therapeutic support in a space where they feel safe.
The therapy room has been thoughtfully designed with children in-care in mind. Soft, large curtains allow the space to be adapted during each session, giving children the freedom to shape their surroundings in a way that makes them feel most comfortable; making it become their space, where they can begin to feel at ease and open up.
The CiN Foundation funds all therapy sessions for children in the care of Fondazzjoni Sebħ, including the employment of three multidisciplinary psychotherapists and the provision of specialised therapeutic services, through this initiative.
“This early intervention model has enabled professionals to better understand and respond to the complex needs of each child,” said Ms Alexia Baldacchino, Sebħ Children’s Services Senior Manager, who manages this service. She added that through close collaboration, a multidisciplinary approach placing trauma-informed care at the heart of everyday practice has been established. “Children who had previously resisted therapy began to engage, building trust through familiarity with therapists and gradually overcoming the stigma often associated with seeking help. This holistic framework has proven highly effective in supporting emotional healing and long-term well-being.”
Episcopal Vicar for Diaconia Fr Martin Micallef commended the strong collaboration between the two entities, which has significantly enhanced the quality of life of the children in care. What was once an ordinary room has been transformed into a nurturing therapeutic hub – a space that reflects care, dignity, and hope.
“Recognising that healing extends beyond the service itself, CiN deepened its commitment by investing in the environment where therapy takes place,” stated Mr Daniel Abela, Founder and Chairperson of CiN Foundation. He added, “Understanding the profound influence of space on emotional safety and openness, CiN undertook an ambitious refurbishment project within Sebħ’s premises created by professionals. This was made possible thanks to the support of organisations such as Regine Sixt Children’s Aid Foundation, Sixt Malta, Malta Enterprise, and many others who contributed financially or through goods and services. This space is a sanctuary where children feel safe to express themselves and begin their journey toward healing.”
Ms Kimberly Barbara, representing the Regine Sixt Children’s Aid Foundation, remarked: “The work of the CiN Foundation and Sebħ has moved me profoundly. What they have built through the Mindful@Home programme – placing psychotherapists and family therapists directly into the daily lives of children in care, offering them consistency, presence, and professional support – is exactly the kind of thoughtful approach I believe in wholeheartedly.”
Mr George Gregory, Malta Enterprise CEO, mentioned that “at Malta Enterprise, we believe that sustainable economic development goes hand in hand with social responsibility. Our contribution to CiN Foundation in 2024 reflects our commitment to supporting initiatives that create meaningful, long-term impact within our communities. The inauguration of this therapy room is a powerful example of how collaboration can help transform lives. This will provide children with a safe and supportive environment where they can heal, grow, and build a brighter future.”
Ms Yvonne Mallia, Director of Fondazzjoni Sebħ, concluded: “This project would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication and generosity of CiN, who mobilised support from benefactors and brought our vision to life. Special thanks also go to EbejerBonnici Architects, who managed the project and contributed through sponsorships. Words cannot fully capture the depth of our gratitude. Through everyone’s efforts, Fondazzjoni Sebħ continues to enhance its services, creating opportunities for healing and brighter, more hopeful futures for the children who need them most.”
