A party was held for some 100 young children, who have been granted refugee or temporary humanitarian status.

The party was organised by HSBC Cares For Children Fund, and was held on the property of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd in Balzan which gives shelter to about 165 asylum-seekers with children aged barely a few days to 14 years. The home is run by the Emigrants’ Commission on behalf of the Church in Malta. The Commission has a total of 14 houses in seven different localities all over the island and gives shelter to 365 people. Children from other houses also joined those living in Balzan to participate in the party.

Apart from enjoying the food and entertainment provided, the party gave the children the feeling of being cared for and loved.

“Children are among the most vulnerable, and frequently are the most to suffer from the consequences of political, religious or ethnic conflicts. Many people in Malta are involved in helping these children overcome their traumas and build a future for themselves. The HSBC Cares For Children Fund will continue to offer its support, as it does to all other less privileged children in Malta,” said the fund’s chairperson, Mrs Catherine Gonzi.