Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1401709
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 15 AUGUST 2021 10 COMMERCIAL Hope and dignity through a soup IN the coming days, the Fran- ciscans in Malta will be opening their doors to people who are marginalised in society and are struggling to make ends meet. The new soup kitchen project which is the brainchild of Fr. Marcellino Micallef OFM was made possible through the fi- nancial support of the Planning Authority and the many volun- teers who are pitching in their time. An old refectory built in 1575 and which forms part of the Franciscan's friary has been given new life and will now serve to welcome and offer some respite for people who are 'suffering in silence'. Be- sides offering these people a daily meal and other physical needs, the place will also pro- vide such persons with support and care, especially for those suffering from mental health issues, while assisting them on their spiritual journey. The project, which received a financial grant of €303,000 from the PA's Development Planning Fund (DPF) was un- veiled by the Minister for the Environment, Climate Change & Planning Hon. Aaron Far- rugia in the presence of the Chairperson of the Develop- ment Planning Fund, Perit Vincent Cassar, Fr Marcellino and the Valletta Local Council Mayor Mr Alfred Zammit. Fr Marcellino said "this pro- ject has long been needed. We cannot afford to turn a blind eye to so many persons who keep coming to knock on the doors of our convent because they feel helpless. We want to breathe back dignity and hope in the lives of these peo- ple not only by providing them with free food, but we will of- fer them counselling services to help them reintegrate into society and have the coping skills to make a decent living for themselves and their fami- lies." Fr Marcellino concluded that "we already started work- ing on a new project which will complement the soup kitchen concept. We have recently ac- quired a property in the vicin- ity which will serve as a night shelter." Although the building was in good structural condition, however, extensive restoration works were needed on the walls and floor area so as to make the place not only welcoming but safe for all the patrons and volunteers who will frequent the place. Works also included the setting up of the main hall as a dining area, a kitchen area for the preparation of the food, a small office, storage, a small laundry and public conveni- ence facilities. On entering the Soup Kitchen from on Ursula Street, one is