People and organisations from across Europe went to the European Parliament in Brussels for the European Citizens’ Prize award ceremony that sought to highlight their contributions to Europe. Dar il-Kaptan, the Foundation for Respite Care Services, Malta’s recipient, was represented by its chairwoman Jennifer Sant.

Parliament Vice President Sylvie Guillaume, who chairs the jury, said: “Europe is going through particularly hard times and it sometimes seems to be disintegrating before our eyes. Yet European citizens show us that Europe is alive and they put European values into practice every day.”

A total of 50 individuals and associations from 26 countries were selected as the 2016 laureates in June. After having received medals in ceremonies in their own countries – that in Malta was held at Europe House, Valletta – they now gathered in Brussels for a central award ceremony.

This is the ninth consecutive year that the European Parliament has awarded the prize

Ms Guillaume, a French member of the S&D group, said: “Whether activists defending human rights and freedoms or a simple baker showing exemplary generosity by welcoming refugees – these people and organisations promote the European project. Let’s celebrate their commitment and encourage their efforts!”

Mrs Sant said Dar il-Kaptan, which this year celebrated 25 years of service to Maltese families and people with disability, was highly honoured to receive this accolade and affirmed the Foundation’s commitment to continue to work hard to enable families to care for their disabled person in the home environment and in the community, thus avoiding institutionalisation.

This is the ninth consecutive year that the European Parliament has awarded European Citizen’s Prize for projects and initiatives that facilitate cross-border co-operation or promote mutual understanding within the EU and promote European values in their day-to-day activities.

For more information on the Foundation for Respite Care Services visit www.darilkaptan.org.