April 12, 2024 – The Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Malta Chapter had a remarkable year in 2023, making a significant impact on the communities it serves. The results of its efforts touched the lives of 426 families and 622 children and young people. Throughout the year, RMHC Malta supported 17 NGOs and other entities, engaging 1,549 professionals and volunteers, and contributing 1,067 hours of impactful activities.

RMHC prioritised initiatives centred on education and skill-building, empowering children, young people, and families for long-term sustainability and resilience. Notable programmes included an international employability training course for young persons with disability organised by Prisms and held at the RMHC Learning Centre in Qawra, and a programme focused on employability run by Jobsplus and Youth Services Malta, which form part of the Foundation for Social Welfare Services.

Additionally, emphasis was also placed on initiatives aimed at promoting overall wellbeing. Play and art sessions enabled Ukrainian children to process the trauma of war, while two sets of SibShops were held to empower and support siblings of children with a disability or chronic illness. The National Parents Society of Persons with Disability (NPSPD) also hosted informative workshops focusing on empowering families and caregivers of children with disabilities. Creative sessions organised by Opening Doors were a resounding success with young adults with disabilities.

Moreover, in 2023, RMHC’s annual conference, in collaboration with Aġenzija Sapport and the Department of Disability Studies at the University of Malta, brought together more than 100 professionals from the education, health, social and community sectors to discuss family and person-centre services for children and young people with disability.

RMHC’s impactful journey and transformative outcomes were prominently featured at the Academy of Givers’ For Impact Event and Fair on March 12, 2024, where corporate executives and members of voluntary organisations witnessed the charity’s commitment to social impact and sustainability. As Stephania Dimech Sant, RMHC Malta’s Executive Director, highlights, “These results serve as a testament to our dedication to making a difference in our community. Through collaborative efforts and the launch of our new Corporate Sponsor Packages, we aim to inspire others to join us in our mission of keeping families close.”