As a result of long term fund raising projects under its Stop Violence in The Home Campaign, The Body Shop Malta yesterday donated two sums of €2,500 each to the Ghabex Shelter managed by Appogg, and to Dar Teresa Spinelli which is managed by the Suriet Il-Bniedem Foundation. Simone Mizzi, director of The Body Shop Malta visited Dar Teresa Spinelli to meet officials of the Foundation and was able to appreciate the upgrading work that has taken place in this 18th Century Valletta home over the last year. The funds were raised by staff of four Body Shop outlets in Malta through the sale of dedicated projects and make up initiatives.

The Suriet Il-Bniedem Foundation manages several homes in Malta. Receiving the cheque from Body Shop director, Simone Mizzi, Catherine Calea, chairperson of Suriet il-Bniedem Foundation said that without efforts from companies such as the The Body Shop the foundation would not be able to improve and develop its services. The funds in this case have gone to upgrading the facilities in Dar Teresa Spinelli in Valletta, securing the wooden balconies and the creation of a gazebo as a play area for children. This shelter can house up to 25 women and children. Emma Portelli, coordinator for Dar Teresa Spinelli and Olivier Gatt, general manager of the Foundation were also present at the presentation.

Appogg is the National Social Welfare Agency which runs Ghabex Shelter, which can house up to 17 persons. Maryanne Gauci, service manager for Adult and Family Services of Appogg said that with the assistance of the funds from The Body Shop, Ghabex will be creating a play area for children in the open air space outside the shelter as well as planning to set up a studyroom for the children. Appogg runs the national Supportline 179, which provides information and assistance to callers about domestic violence, child abuse, and other social issues.

The Stop Violence in The Home Campaign by The Body Shop is an international initiative present in all countries where The Body Shop trades. Simone Mizzi said the programme is only the start of others that will follow this coming year and staff of the Body Shop Malta intend to back fund raising efforts with regular presence of qualified staff members in the shelters who will volunteer to assist victims with wellbeing activities such as massage, make up and grooming.