The Prime Minister's wife, Lydia Abela, has launched the third edition of 'A Gift with Love with a Difference,' during a visit to Mater Dei Hospital.

This follows the launch of the fifth edition of 'A Gift with Love' at Castille last week. The campaign collects gifts for underprivileged children who might not receive presents during the Christmas season.

Through this initiative, the entire country can contribute to ensuring that no child in Malta is left without a gift during the festive period, a government statement said.

'A Gift with Love with a Difference' works hand in hand with A Gift with Love, with a focus on supporting animals in sanctuaries across Malta.

The initiative was inspired by the beloved Jake Vella, who passed away earlier this year. His wish was to collect pet food and related products at the entrance of Mater Dei Hospital.

Abela paid tribute to Jake's memory, recalling his extraordinary courage in battling his rare illness with altruism and positivity until the very end.

"I remember how two years ago, we fulfilled Jake's dream and launched A Gift with Love with a Difference for the first time. During this season, when everyone is buying gifts, we also thought of abandoned animals, encouraging people to buy food and pet products to be collected here at the main hospital hall," Abela said.

She also noted the great success of the past two editions of this initiative.

Abela invited everyone who can to contribute to abandoned animals by leaving their donations at the main hall of Mater Dei Hospital during the festive season, ensuring that Jake's dream becomes a reality once again.

"I have no doubt that the Maltese and Gozitans' altruistic spirit and beautiful values will ensure that A Gift with Love with a Difference will be as successful as previous editions," Abela said.

"We gave Jake our word that every December, we would come here and breathe life back into this hall with this initiative. Let us keep the promise we made to Jake and continue making his dream a reality," Abela said.

Health Minister Jo Etienne Abela, who was present during the visit, described the gesture as one that honours the memory of Vella, a young man who inspired many.

He recalled that, despite facing numerous challenges, Jake always looked for ways to help others, especially animals.

The Minister also highlighted the return of the Paw Walk on Sunday, 15 December, a fundraising activity for abandoned animals in support of the AAA Sanctuary, an event originally created by Jake Vella.

As in previous years, the walk will start from Mater Dei Hospital at 10:00am, and everyone is invited to attend with their pets.

"I am certain that, once again, the Maltese and Gozitans will show their support and ensure that A Gift with Love with a Difference is a success like the past editions. I am confident this is what Jake envisioned for this year: helping as many sanctuaries and animals as possible," Abela said.