Celebrities from all walks of life participated in the YMCA Valletta Homeless Project and slept for a night on mattresses in Republic Street to help create awareness about homeless people in Malta.
Ira Losco, Moira Delia, Miriam Dalli, Ray Calleja, Peppi Azzopardi, Ian, Dr Justyne Caruana, Carmel Busuttil Il-Buzu, Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando and Rachel Attard were among the celebrities who went homeless for a night.
“There are over 300 homeless people in Malta,” said Jean Paul Mifsud from the YMCA. “However, many people don’t believe there is anyone who doesn’t have a home to go to.”
This invisible group is mainly made up of women and children, he explained. “Many have been battered and kicked out, or have left with their children. Others cannot make it to the end of the month and sleep in the streets.”
Many people still think that homeless people are bums who sleep outside on benches or on the pavements.
“People don’t see the homeless because we take them in and try to help them with their problems,” said Mr Mifsud.
Labour MP Justyne Caruana said her homeless night had made her realise how lucky she was.
“Sleeping outside for just one night made me appreciate what I have. I felt very exposed and vulnerable because I didn’t have any privacy,” she said. “You take certain commodities such as using the bathroom when you want, having a toothbrush and eating when you are hungry, for granted.”
Early yesterday morning, after spending the night in Republic Street, the celebrities collected donations from the public, while others followed fitness classes.
“There are some who just walk by and are disinterested – especially young people,” said Mrs Caruana. “Young children donated – some of them even told me it was from their pocket money – but unfortunately the young people did not bother.”
Maltese athlete and TV personality Xandru Grech said he was worried about the reaction of some people.
“Many people asked if the money was for Maltese people or irregular immigrants. It is as though the Maltese have lost some of their goodwill and generosity, which is a pity as it is one of our characteristics.”
The YMCA operates from two centres: one in Merchants Street and the other in St Paul’s Street. The premises in Merchants Street is a drop-in centre, where people with difficulties can go with the aim of being helped. In St Paul’s Street there is Dar Niki Cassar, a shelter for people who are homeless.