Transforming a Historic Monastery into a State-of-the-Art Children's Centre
A remarkable initiative is underway in Malta, where a 300-year-old monastery, formerly a residence for the elderly, will be repurposed into a specialized support centre for children with disabilities. This transformation is backed by a significant investment of €38 million from the government. The historic property, known as Dar Saura, was gifted to The Malta Trust Foundation by the Church two years ago, marking a pivotal moment in the commitment to enhancing social services for vulnerable communities.
The funding strategy for this project includes an innovative aspect involving citizenship by merit, aiming to attract affluent donors and foreign experts who are willing to contribute to this noble cause. Home Affairs Minister Byron Camilleri emphasized that individuals who significantly support this initiative, whether through financial contributions or by providing essential expertise, will be considered for this citizenship program, provided they meet the necessary due diligence requirements.
"We believe in this project and understand its potential to strengthen our society," said Camilleri, highlighting the dual benefit of enhancing services for children while fostering international collaboration.
A Commitment to Inclusion and Future Generations
The renovation project, which was initially estimated at €10 million, has seen costs escalate due to thorough inspections, now approaching four times the initial projections. The funds will not only restore the building but will also upgrade facilities, including the chapel dedicated to St. Nicholas, ensuring that it meets modern standards of accessibility and support for children with disabilities.
President Emerita Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, who chairs the Malta Trust Foundation, described the project’s inception as a historic milestone for Malta. "This is a significant step towards creating a more just and inclusive society," she remarked, affirming the foundation's vision of recognizing children's potential rather than their disabilities. The aim is to cultivate an environment where every child can thrive, fostering dignity and respect within the community.
Archbishop Charles Scicluna emphasized the importance of collaboration among the Church, State, and NGOs during these challenging times marked by global unrest. He expressed hope that this initiative would serve as a powerful example of unity and proactive love in action. Prime Minister Robert Abela acknowledged the project's ambitious scope amidst economic pressures and global crises, reaffirming the government’s commitment to investing in social projects that prioritize the welfare of children.
Abela remarked, "This occasion is deeply emotional for me, as it exemplifies our dedication to uniting for the common good through societal needs." The transformation of Dar Saura is set to not only enhance the landscape of social services in Malta but also to inspire other nations in their quest for social inclusion and support for the most vulnerable.
As reported by timesofmalta.com.
