An Open Day was organized by RTK Radio on New Year’s Day 2012 at Dar tal-Providenza, during which €831,212 were collected in aid of the Home.  This was the highest sum ever collected during the last 15 years that RTK have organized this Open Day through a televised marathon.  From early morning until late evening, in spite of inclement weather, large crowds of Maltese people gathered under a tent erected for this purpose in the parking home of the residence.

The Director of the Dar tal-Providenza, Fr Martin Micallef, thanked all those who participated in the organization of the Open Day, particularly the people of Malta and Gozo, who, in spite of the rain, once again displayed a spirit of solidarity and generosity in aid of the Dar tal-Providenza.  He stated that the funds will go towards ameliorating the living conditions of the residents in order that they may continue to live a decent and better life.

During the course of the day, many dignitaries visited the Residence: the President of Malta Dr George Abela and Mrs Abela; the Prime Minister Dr Lawrence Gonzi and Mrs Gonzi; the Leader of the Opposition Dr Joseph Muscat; Archbishop Paul Cremona OP and Archbishsop Emeritus Mons Guzeppi Mercieca.

The televised broadcast began at 9.00am with the celebration of mass which was held in the chapel of the residence.  It ended well after midnight, after the final sum was announced, amidst much cheer on the part of the volunteers who dedicated their time during the activity.  TVM, Education Channel 22, One TV, Net TV and Favourite TV aired live for as long as 15 hours.  The broadcast consisted of a vast programme of entertainment, which included song and dance routines by local artistes, entertainers and bands.

Click on the photos to enlarge. The photos of the Archbishop’s events may be purchased from PHOTOCITY, Valletta. Tel: 21236723. Email: [email protected]