The 53-hour BOV Marigold Volleyball Marathon for Id-Dar tal-Providenza this year enters into its 11th edition.
The BOV Marigold Volleyball Marathon was officially inaugurated earlier this evening by President George Vella, who visited the Home and was given a warm welcome by Fr Martin Micallef, Director of the Home and Ms Elvia George, Chief Finance Officer at Bank of Valletta and a board member of the Marigold Foundation - BOV in the Community and Mr Emanuel Zammit, Chairperson of the Marathon's Organising Committee. Present for the inauguration were also Hon. Anthony Agius Decelis, Parliamentary Secretary for Persons with Disability and Active Ageing; Dr Clifton Grima, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Sport and Voluntary Organisations; Dr Maria Deguara, Shadow Minister for the Rights of People with Disability and Active Ageing; Mr Oliver Scicluna Commissioner for the Rights of Persons with Disability and Kurtsein Sant, Siġġiewi Mayor.
Fr Martin Micallef started his brief address by underlining that "this marathon rests on pillars that are very dear to us - generosity and sport. The altruistic spirit of everyone involved shines throughout the event, witnessing that the Maltese are always at the forefront when it comes to solidarity." While thanking all those who will be supporting this fundraising event he stressed that "generosity should also be translated into respect for the dignity and rights of persons with disability. I'm always humbled by the public's support year after year and I assure you that your support during this marathon will continue to help us enhance the quality of life of the residents." He thanked H.E. Dr George Vella President of Malta for inaugurating the Marathon, The Marigold Foundation BOV in the Community and Mrs Michelle Muscat for supporting this annual event, the organizing committee, the players, volunteers and sponsors.
Corroborating on Fr Martin's comments, Elvia George said that, "The Marigold Foundation has worked closely with Id-Dar tal-Providenza since it was first set up, taking over the support previously provided by BOV. The sterling service which the home provides, not only to its residents but also to those individuals who make use of its respite services, requires continuous investment. This is needed not only to provide the required services on a daily basis but also to enhance current facilities and invest in new ones. Over the past five decades, this Home has remained true to the values of its founding Father and truly provides a family environment to all those who seeks its support." She concluded by saying that in this, Id-Dar tal-Providenza is aligned with the objectives of the Marigold Foundation - BOV in the Community to make our community better.
President Vella expressed his satisfaction at the manner in which the nation comes together to support Id-Dar tal-Providenza, throughout the year, but particularly during this annual event. He thanked the hundreds of volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to produce this Marathon. He also appealed to everyone to empathise with all persons of disability and to improve their quality of life both through time and donations.
The Marathon will run until Sunday at the grounds of Id-Dar tal-Providenza. In addition to supporting the players who will be playing volleyball, visitors may enjoy some of Malta's best singers, the Bands of the Armed Forces of Malta, the Police Force, Mro Brown and Spiteri Lucas. There will also be food stalls and entertainment for children. The Marathon will be aired live on television stations TVM, TVM2, NET TV and One TV.
Contributions to Id-Dar tal-Providenza can be made by calling 51702012 for a €15 donation and 51802013 for a €25 donation. A donation of €6.99 can be made by sending a blank SMS to 50618944. BOV Mobile Pay subscribers may make their donation on 79324834. There is also a pledge line 2146 1537.