A technical issue that affected fundraising events recently came to light and caused a lot of concern for NGOs and organisations affected.

Earlier this month, service provider Go admitted that a technical issue led to the double registration of pledged donations during several fundraising marathons last year, meaning that the real amount collected is €1.4 million less than originally thought. It said that donors were not billed twice and that it is ensuring that the error does not happen again.

The main marathons affected were the L-Istrina campaign organised by the MCCF, Dar tal-Providenza and Caritas Malta. Those affected were concerned with the situation, and Go had apologised.

While what happened cannot be reversed and was not foreseeable by anyone, one must express serious concern for the organisations listed above, given that their work relies on the funds generated by the public.

Receiving less than the amount thought to have been pledged could mean that some planned projects might have needed to be cut, or patients might not have been able to receive the support they required.

However, Prime Minister Robert Abela made an announcement on Saturday.

Visiting Dar tal-Providenza, Abela said the government feels obliged to intervene so that projects planned by the organisations could materialise. He said he will ensure that initiatives are in place for the organisations to reach their financial targets.

For those non-political organisations affected, such support should be given by the government and it is the right thing to do. It was an unfortunate technical issue, but one that could have had severe negative effects on those requiring support.

During the Covid period, it comes as no surprise that these organisations have struggled to raise funds. As such, such an issue in the funds thought to have been raised could result in heavily detrimental effects.

While we have all been struggling with the virus, we must remember that there are those who need a little or a lot of extra support. The Maltese have always had generous hearts, and we should consider, if possible, sending a few donations to such organisations that are dedicated to helping others when we are able to.

The Prime Minister’s pledge to ensure that these organisations reach their financial targets will mean that planned projects might not be cut, that people requiring the support of these organisations will continue to be helped.

While the government has been working to ensure the country keeps afloat during the pandemic, by ensuring that as many jobs as possible are not lost through the wage supplement for instance, it is good to see that those who are in tougher positions are not being forgotten.

One hopes that organisations that continue to provide essential services for society will be able to continue running strong despite the issues the country is currently facing. After all, where would Malta be without Caritas, Dar tal-Providenza and the MCCFF?