Christmas is a season of merriment for many, but for those who have no one to share the day with, it can be the time when loneliness hits hardest.

For this reason, Fondazzjoni Suret il-Bniedem is organising an open house tomorrow and is inviting those combating loneliness to a gathering at their Dar Leopoldo home in Albert Street, Gżira.

“It is open and free for men and women who wish to spend Christmas Day in the company of others,” Josianne Grixti, a spokeswoman for the NGO, said.

Guests will be offered a free meal at noon and then provided with tea in the afternoon.

“But people can turn up whatever time they want. The house will be open from 10am to 6pm,” Ms Grixti said.

The food will be prepared by the eight current residents at Dar Leopoldo. “It is the first time we are doing this but we feel there are many people out there who would like to share the day with others and make new friends,” she said.

If the event is a success, the NGO will consider organising the get-together on an annual basis.

The foundation has three houses, in Gżira, Marsa and Valletta, which offer temporary residential care and social support to those who find themselves with no roof over their heads, including those who have come out of prison and victims of domestic violence.

Suret il-Bniedem was set up by the Maltese Franciscan Capuchin Province and throughout the years hundreds have made use of the foundation’s services to pick up the pieces of their broken lives through the help and assistance of its dedicated staff.

For more information call 2123 2330.