HSBC Malta donated some 350 shrubs to embellish recreational spaces in Pembroke, as part of a project coordinated by YMCA Homeless and YWCA, in collaboration with the 34U Campaign and the locality’s local council.

The donation was symbolically presented yesterday, coinciding with Arbor Day, which celebrates the planting and caring for trees worldwide. During the ceremony, Rural Affairs and the Environment Minister George Pullicino also presented the 34U School Campaign Award, which was coordinated for the second year running to reward the school that planted the highest number of trees from the beginning of the scholastic year until Arbor Day, taking into consideration the school’s population.

This year’s winning school is Our Lady Immaculate School of Hamrun. The Mater Boni Consigli School of Paola is the runner-up. Congratulating the students for their success, Minister Pullicino also praised the dedication of teachers who went beyond their normal duties to encourage participation by students. “Environmental education is of primary importance, since it is a sure way of instilling a positive environmental appreciation and awareness from a tender age,” he said.

“This initiative is part of HSBC’s commitment to support the community and NGOs working to improve the environment they live in,” said Marica Debono, Service and Sales Branch Manager at HSBC’s St Andrew’s Branch.

“Contributing towards the increase of trees in areas around Malta and Gozo is a tangible result of this commitment.”

“Pembroke is the first locality we chose for our first initiative with the 34U Campaign as it represents an up-and-coming young community,” said YMCA Homeless spokesperson Maria Sammut. “It is encouraging for us to find the support of HSBC Malta to embellish spaces where young families can hold their recreational activities.”