One of the biggest houses in Fleur-de-Lys Road, Birkirkara, has been converted into a shelter for the homeless and will be providing food for those who have none.

Dar Papa Frangisku, as it has been called, will be administered by Caritas, assisted by the government, which will be paying salaries, and food imports firm Alf Mizzi and Sons, which has committed to helping it through the provision of food.
 
The Home was inaugurated earlier today by Social Solidarity Minister Michael Farrugia.

He explained that there were several cases where people were forced out of their homes. Some ended up seeking shelter at police stations, which was totally inappropriate, especially when children were involved, he said.

Users of the home will be assisted by social workers and job coaches.

The home is able to handle 20 residents, but a second, similar shelter will be opened next year, the minister said.