92-year-old Maria Dolores has donated a property she owns in Fleur De Lys B'kara to serve as a shelter home for women.

The official opening of Dar Maria Dolores was held this morning in the presence of Minister for Social Solidarity Michael Farrugia, Caritas Malta Director and President Emeritus George Abela. This was the second shelter home opened as a result of the collaboration between the government, Caritas Malta and the private sector, this time represented by the Alf Mizzi Foundation.

Minister Farrugia explained that the three entities have worked together for the first time and collaborated to open Dar Papa Frangisku. The latter was opened to provide a home for those in need of shelter. Papa Frangisku house hosts some 20 people with more than half being foreigners. The average age of those sheltered in Dar Papa Frangisku is 40.

In the presence of Maria Dolores, the Minister explained that this second home is being opened to cater for women only.  He explained that the government has issued a call for those who would wish to donate a house for social services.

Dr Farrugia thanked Maria Dolores for the generous gift for this noble cause. "The aim is not only to provide shelter but also to provide any necessary social support for the residents."

The house was renovated by the government at a cost of €52,000.  

Photo: Jonathan Borg