Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1245222
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 10 MAY 2020 8 CULTURE MUSIC MALTA Together's Festival of Grat- itude and Inspiration was aired on Sunday, 3 May to thank the health care workers, other front-liners and volunteers who are involved in the fight against the medical and social problems brought on by COVID-19. The festival brought to light the in- spiring generosity of both the local and foreign communities in Malta. In the days prior to the event, vari- ous companies and individuals were approached to support a number of exceptional initiatives doing fantastic work on the ground in Malta during these challenging times. Many volun- tary organisations around the island, which are currently working hard to help vulnerable people, survive on do- nations. While their funding has re- cently dried up due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they have had to increase their activities as many vulnerable people find themselves needing help. Through the festival's sponsors and donors, over €300,000 was raised for nine exceptional initiatives: Rich- mond Foundation, Inspire Foun- dation, Malta Trust Foundation, Foodbank Lifeline Foundation, St Jeanne Antide Foundation, Jesu- it Refugee Service, Victory Kitchen, FIDEM Charity Foundation and Dar Tal-Providenza. From support for people with disabilities and people with mental health issues, to food- banks for those that cannot afford to feed their families, these nine initia- tives were handpicked to help them to continue their outstanding work. The production of the festival was coordinated by the organisers of X-Factor Malta (Mint Media), Jagged House and Malta Together. Sever- al performances by many of Malta's best artists were aired in between heart-warming messages from Dr Lydia Abela, local healthcare work- ers, voluntary organisations and other front liners, as well as David Beckham, Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher. This festival was just the start for Malta Together and what the initia- tive aims to achieve. Malta Togeth- er is a community website that was created to help people in Malta live their lives better during the COV- ID-19 pandemic, by providing access to support, activities, entertainment, and useful services for individuals, families and businesses. Malta Together aims to grow into a platform where companies, organisa- tions, individuals and the communi- ty can support each other and make a difference in Malta. From those looking for help, to those offering the help, keeping people active and enter- tained - Malta Together aims to act as a catalyst to bring the community together. Anyone wishing to support any of the voluntary organisations or be part of Malta Together, should visit https:// www.maltatogether.com/donatenow or contact Malta Together on action@ maltatogether.com Over €300,000 raised for charity through Malta Together's 'Festival of Gratitude and Inspiration'