More than 400 vulnerable people are expected to attend Christmas lunch hosted by Caritas at the Archbishop's Curia. 

Caritas is organising the event for a fourth successive year, with this year also marking the organisation's 50-year anniversary. 

"Loneliness is something we've identified as a major challenge for our society," Caritas director Anthony Gatt told Times of Malta. 

"For anyone suffering, Christmas can make their suffering twice as hard. We want to relieve some of the pain someone suffering from loneliness may feel seeing others celebrating Christmas with their families and friends."

More than 100 volunteers are involved in the event, from preparing the food to welcoming people as they arrive and sitting with them throughout the meal. The event can also serve as a point of contact, with Caritas offering its services to anyone who seems like they could benefit from further help. 

Mr Gatt said the hundreds of people who usually attend the meal - which is open to people of all faiths and backgrounds - were a diverse group, comprising many elderly but also younger people going through a separation or major life change. 

"Our wish is ultimately that this meal will no longer be needed," Mr Gatt said.

"We'd like to encourage people to reach out if they know a relative or a neighbour who's alone, and to invite them to share Christmas with them. Everyone should be able to feel part of their community."

Anyone wishing to attend the lunch can contact Caritas on 9912 2515.