Fourteen members of the Youth Fellowship were awarded grants from the Catenian Association's Bursary Fund to carry out voluntary work in Albania this summer.

Cheques amounting to a total of €3,108 were presented to the participants during a special event held at Marsascala Parish Church, attended by members of the local community.

The event began with a send-off mass celebrated by Fr Clive Seychell, who spoke about the importance of voluntary work, not only for those receiving assistance but also for the young people dedicating their time to such initiatives.

Catenian Provincial Director George Portelli spoke briefly about the Catenian Association and its presence in Malta through its five circles on the island and one in Gozo. He highlighted the association's continued support for charitable causes and youth volunteering initiatives.

Similar grants amounting to a total of €13,000, will also be awarded this summer to another four groups, involving a further thirty-nine youths who will be carrying out voluntary work abroad. One of these groups is from MSSP and will be undertaking voluntary work in the Philippines. Another group from Nadur, Gozo, will be assisting in Guatemala, while two groups from the University of Malta will volunteer in Egypt and Ethiopia.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of individual cheques to the successful applicants, followed by a briefing session. During this session, the youths, led by Ricky Galea, explained that during their stay in Albania, they will be hosted by the Salesians in Shkodër and Tirana.

Their work will involve assisting the Sisters of the Missionaries of Charity and parish priests in the local communities. They will also organise a live-in programme, summer camps, youth exchanges, and help animate masses.