Multi-sensory studio inaugurated

A multi-sensory room, funded entirely by the Vodafone Malta Foundation, was inaugurated at the Arka Foundation's Respite Centre, Ghajnsielem, on May 18.

The new equipment, which stimulates persons with special needs through light, sound and touch, will be used as part of the therapeutic facilities offered at the centre.

This project is yet another initiative of the Vodafone Malta Foundation, a voluntary non-profit organisation whose mission statement spells out the importance of sharing the benefits of the developments in mobile technology by supporting the community in which Vodafone customers, employees, investors, partners and suppliers live.

"Multi-sensory rooms have a beneficial impact on individuals with physical and mental disabilities, helping them relax while stimulating their senses. Such rooms also help these individuals to interact more effectively with the world around them, and just as important, making them happier," Mrs Gemma Mifsud Bonnici, chairperson of the Vodafone Malta Foundation, explained.

The Arka Foundation is an organisation which has been caring for people with special needs for several years. Its respite centre takes in people with disabilities permanently as well as for short periods to relieve their carers.

Mgr Emmanuel Curmi, director of the Arka Foundation, explained that expert advice had been sought in choosing state-of-the-art equipment.

Gozo Minister Giovanna Debono, Bishop Mario Grech, Gozo MPs Frederick Azzopardi and Justyn Caruana, and mayors Dr Monica Vella (Xewkija) and Francis Cauchi (Ghajnsielem) attended the official opening.

Also present was British High Commissioner Nick Archer, and Joe Grioli, former Vodafone chairman, who are both members of the Vodafone Malta Foundation.