On Christmas day, Il-Kċina ta’ Marta (Marta’s Kitchen) together with 220 volunteers from the Volunteers Office of the Archdiocese of Malta, successfully delivered 350 two-course meals to 120 different addresses, along with a dessert, and a Christmas gift for the children in the household, to individuals in need across Malta. The meals were delivered directly to beneficiaries’ homes by dedicated volunteers, ensuring that those unable to attend the Curia Christmas lunch because of mobility or health issues, or other challenges, were not left without a warm, nutritious meal.
Beyond logistics, the initiative focused on something more important — human connection. For many beneficiaries, the volunteers were the only visitors they received that day, bringing not only food but also joy, dignity, and a heartfelt greeting.
Volunteers shared numerous touching experiences from the day, including locating beneficiaries despite incorrect addresses, identifying urgent health needs and ensuring help arrived in time, and responding compassionately to difficult personal situations. Some beneficiaries expressed deep gratitude, sharing that it was their only conversation of the day, while others spoke of ongoing hardships, illness, or financial struggles. Volunteers also noted the strong sense of unity and personal growth they experienced by coming together in the service of others.
Il-Kċina ta’ Marta, which forms part of the Fondazzjoni Opri Soċjali tal-Arċidjoċesi ta’ Malta (FOSAM), operates through the generosity of volunteers and benefactors, providing over 500 meals every week to individuals referred by social care professionals. This yearly Christmas initiative, along with the Christmas meal organised by Caritas at the Archbishop’s Curia and in various parishes, reflects the Church’s mission to reach the most vulnerable members of society, particularly at a time when no one should feel forgotten or alone.
Il-Kċina ta’ Marta and the Volunteers Office of the Archdiocese of Malta extend their sincere thanks to all volunteers, who gave their time and hearts, as well as to benefactors who made this initiative possible. Special thanks are due to the Alf Mizzi Foundation and other benefactors for their continued generosity and commitment.
The public is encouraged to support the ongoing work of Il-Kċina ta’ Marta through donations, which help extend care, dignity, and hope to those in need. Contributions can be made via https://church.mt/donate/, indicating Kċina ta’ Marta as the beneficiary in the message or by cheques payable to FOSAM Loop and sent to 18, Archbishop’s Curia, St Calcedonius Square, Floriana FRN1535.
