Dar tal-Providenza has launched its annual New Year's Day fundraising marathon, Festa ta' Ġenerożità (Feast of Generosity), a key initiative to support its residential services for persons with disability.

The event, which runs until midnight, is held at the charity's main complex in Siġġiewi and aims to raise essential funds to sustain its operations. Dar tal-Providenza requires around €7 million annually to maintain its residential facilities, and the New Year's Day marathon has become its most important fundraising effort.

The day began with a Mass at 9am celebrated by Archbishop Charles Scicluna, followed by the fundraising marathon, which started at 10.30am and continues throughout the day. The Siġġiewi complex is home to three residences: Villa Mons. Gonzi, Villa Papa Giovanni and Villa Papa Luciani. In addition, the organisation runs four community homes across Malta: Żerniq in Siġġiewi, Akwarell in Qawra, Dar Pirotta in Birkirkara and Shalom in Żurrieq.

In his homily, delivered on the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, and World Day of Peace, Archbishop Scicluna reflected on the need for silence and attentiveness to God's word. He said that people need silence "to listen to the Word of God knocking at the door of our hearts and asking of us not only to be like God, but to take care of one another."

The Archbishop added that God looks upon humanity and blesses it, calling on people to do the same with one another. "Let us look at one another and bless one another. God blesses us also through one another," he said. He expressed the hope that the new year would see people become a true blessing to each other in every relationship - within families, among young people, couples and society as a whole. He stressed the importance of showing mercy rather than anger, vengeance or envy, concluding that "the world is in need of mercy."

At the end of the homily, Archbishop Scicluna thanked benefactors whose generosity enables 151 residents to live at Dar tal-Providenza and in its four community homes. He invited the public to pray that the organisation would continue to be "a network of presence, solidarity and care," promoting the human dignity and autonomy of its residents and supporting those who provide essential care.

Following Mass, the Archbishop visited residents and volunteers assisting during the Festa ta' Ġenerożità, thanking the Maltese and Gozitan people for expressing a love that shows genuine care and understanding for those in need.

Members of the public can support the fundraiser through telephone donations by calling 5170 2013 (€15), 5180 2014 (€25), 5190 2085 (€50) or 5130 2022 (€100). Donations of €7 can be made by sending an SMS to 5061 8922. Contributions of any amount can also be made via BOV Mobile or myAPS on 7932 4834.