HSBC Malta has 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 area’s local council.

The donation was symbolically presented on 16 January, to coincide with Arbor Day, which celebrates the planting of 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 presented for the second year running to reward the school that had planted the highest number of trees from the beginning of the scholastic year up to Arbor Day, taking into consideration the school’s population.

This year’s winning school was Our Lady Immaculate School in Hamrun. The Mater Boni Consigli School in Paola was the runner-up. Congratulating the students for their success, Mr 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 in which they live,” said Service and Sales Branch Manager at HSBC St Andrews Branch Marica Debono. “Contributing towards the increase of trees in areas around Malta and Gozo is a tangible result of this commitment.”

YMCA Homeless spokeswoman Maria Sammut said: “Pembroke is the first locality chosen for our first initiative with the 34U Campaign as it represents an up-and-coming young community.

It is encouraging for us to find the support of HSBC Malta to embellish spaces where young families can hold their recreational activities.”