The adventure-cum-mission of a Maltese group led by President George Abela to Arequipa, Peru, is drawing to a close. The President returns to Malta on Thursday.

Below are some of the participants’ comments on Facebook

“The eye specialists have already given out 500 of the glasses − most of which were collected by people at bov! Astroturf being laid down on a football pitch, childcare centre built, and several construction projects underway... Pressure is on to finish them... Peruvians host us to some event every night: they cannot believe what a hardworking and humble President we have...”

“First project completed − but woman does not know that she will also be getting new furniture! Kids do their homework on the ironing board − and sleep on padding laid on old benches. I cannot wait to see their faces! Beyond their wildest dreams...”

“Spent the morning in the ‘Victory Kitchen’ cooking, then serving food to the poor. The poverty we see is unbelievable. It’s good to be helping these people, yet I feel so helpless when faced with this situation. I admit I get moments of helplessness during my day. It’s not easy seeing all this poverty and knowing that the future of these lovely kids is so bleak.”