The foundation Suriet il-Bniedem welcomes President George Abela’s speech during the graduation ceremony ‘Evening of Solidarity’ held at San Blas on July 5. In his speech Dr Abela insisted on the need to embark on a new project for those individuals who are nearing the end of their term at the Corradino Correctional Facility.
President Abela’s speech should not fall on deaf ears- Fr Franco Fenech, Chaplain, Corradino Correctional Facility, Paola
This project consists of a home that will offer a programme so that detainees approaching the final phase of their sentence can prepare themselves for reintegration into the community and start a new life.
Suriet il-Bniedem supports Dr Abela’s proposal, given that for the past 11 years we have continuously worked towards this aim. This was the inspiration of Fr Leopoldo Tabone, a Capuchin Friar who had been the chaplain of the Corradino Correctional Facilitiy for around 20 years. During those years he became aware that a substantial number of inmates encountered problems after their release from prison.
Consequently Fr Leopoldo opened a residence called ‘Welcome Home’, which he turned into a shelter for those ex-detainees who were homeless. The project was so successful that it led to the setting up of Suriet il-Bniedem.
The foundation that currently runs three homes also welcomes ex-detainees and helps them reintegrate into society by providing a professional programme tailored towards their needs.
Several individuals are referred to us by the Corradino Correctional Facility and there are numerous success stories to talk of. Some of these former detainees today have their own residence, a job and a life which is entirely different to the one they have previously known.
Suriet il-Bniedem strongly believes in the concept referred to by Dr Abela and believes that his speech should not fall on deaf ears.
We believe that the dream of our founder, Fr Leopoldo, can become a reality. Suriet il-Bniedem is prepared to work with anyone who can contribute towards this project.