Bank of Valletta employees across the organisation reported to work in Jeans on Friday 8th July. The initiative was a fun way for the employees to raise funds for Dar Kenn għal Saħħtek and its residents.
There was a keen response among BOV employees who swapped their uniform and corporate attire for more informal clothing in exchange of a monetary donation that will be presented to Dar Kenn għal Saħħtek later on this month. Customers who visited BOV branches during the day were also encouraged to participate and make a small contribution.
"Dress Downs have started featuring regularly on the Bank's calendar of events," said Charles Azzopardi, Head PR & Marketing at Bank of Valletta. "Whilst allowing our people a little more personal expression, these occasions help to bring us together for a common cause. This contributes positively to the team effort that goes beyond the parameters of a given unit. Concurrently, the social dimension gives an added dimension to the initiative."
Dar Kenn għal Saħħtek is the national centre for eating disorders in Malta. It is both a residential and semi-residential facility that provides a holistic treatment for patients with eating disorders and weight behavioural problems like anorexia and bulimia. Residents stay at the home for an indefinite period of time depending on each individual case. "The programme we offer is one of intense rehabilitation through which our team seeks to interrupt the growth and maintenance factors of the resident's disorder," explained Darleen Zerafa Director at Dar Kenn għal Saħħtek.
BOV employees were also invited to attend an informal presentation by specialists in nutrition and well-being working at the Home. During this talk, they were given tips and practical guidelines relating to managing stress and motivation as well as healthy eating for the family.
"The questions that our people put to the speakers show that there is a genuine interest in this area as people try to understand better how to eat for a healthy lifestyle both for themselves and for their family," said Mr Azzopardi. "We thank Darleen and her team for dedicating their time and effort in sharing these important tips with our people."
More information about Dar Kenn għal Saħħtek can be obtained from their Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/kennghalsahhtek/