Many households have received the Malta Hospice Movement's sunflower logo on a sticker. Residents are asked to affix it to their windscreen or in some other prominent place as a sign of solidarity with Hospice.

Perhaps more importantly, households have received a flier describing Hospice services and asking for support. The enclosed envelope addressed to Hospice makes it simple to offer a contribution.

The Sunflower Campaign 2007 is Hospice's main annual fundraising event. "We appeal to your generosity and count on your support," the movement said in a statement last week.

In 2006 Hospice provided palliative care services to 650 patients and their families, most of whom were suffering from cancer.

"At Hospice we recognise that facing a serious illness presents many difficulties and challenges," it said. "We recognise and nurture the social, emotional, spiritual and physical needs that the whole family experiences when someone is very ill.

"That is why our multidisciplinary team, all of whom are trained in palliative care, attends to the physical, psychosocial and spiritual needs of our patients and extends support to their families and significant others."

The Malta Hospice Movement is a pioneer in creating and delivering palliative care services in the Maltese Islands. Its services are provided free and it relies on donations to help them to keep them so.

"We welcome everyone and value each one as a unique individual," the movement said. "On behalf of our patients and their families, Hospice thanks you in advance for your generous donation."