Volksbank has confirmed that it will continue its sponsorship of the Malta Red Cross in 2012.

Although it forms part of the International Red Cross group, the Maltese branch relies entirely on donations and dedicated volunteers who give their time and skills to protect lives and prevent and alleviate suffering.

“Getting to know about the financial challenges the organisation has to face, Volksbank last year decided to allocate most of its funds for sponsorships to the Malta Red Cross,” managing director Herbert Skok said.

“The Red Cross provides first aid and ambulance services during public events, but the main objective is to assist in case of national disaster. So the whole population profits from the services they offer on a voluntary basis.”

The fleet of the Malta Red Cross is made up of six ambulances, two support vehicles, one quad bike, one rescue boat, one goods van and a people transporter, which all have to be maintained by funds received through sponsorships.

Funds are also needed for first aid duties during private events and taxi services for people needing wheelchairs.