The Malta Community Chest Fund is inviting employees to donate €1 from their wages every month to the Fund.

The scheme was launched by President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, who said that every month the Fund receives around 200 new applications from people who are suffering from severe chronic diseases or those who are passing through various situations and need help.

The MCCF spends some €250,000 monthly on chemotherapy and specialised care. It also spends some €25,000 monthly on family members who accompany their sick relatives abroad.

The President said the MCCF is also spending €22,000 monthly on the acquisition of medical equipment such as mobility aids, wheelchairs and specialised mattresses. €10,000 monthly are spent on social help which includes food vouchers and financial help for students pursuing further studies.

The MCCF spends 900,000 euros annually to help NGOs”

She said the Malta Community Chest Fund should not find itself in a position where a call for help was refused because there were insufficient funds.

"€1 each month from everyone would make a difference in the lives of families seeking the help of the Malta Community Chest Fund," she said.

Joe Farrugia, Director General of the Malta Employers’ Association said the association was urging employers to back the initiative.