The country's most popular fundraiser l-Istrina is back but in a completely revamped version.
Starting from this year, the fundraiser - presided over by President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca - will allocate funds to different sectors instead of individual voluntary organisations.
Up until this year, the Malta Community Chest Fund - the organisation behind the event - would publish a list of groups and associations that would benefit from the money collected.
However, this year the board drew up a list of sectors which include upbringing, childhood, work, health, poverty, disability, dialogue and the environment. In January 2015, groups and associations, which have to be registered as voluntary organisations, will be able to apply for funds according to the sector.
Speaking during the launch of this year's l-Istrina, board member Carmel Borg explained there would also be three clear financial packages - large scale projects, infrastructural works and an international fund.
The board also agreed with a suggestion put forward by Ms Coleiro Preca that additional points would be given to groups working for the same cause who come together with one project.
Saying this "is not an imposition," Prof. Borg said that it would be encouraged if they grouped together.
In December, the list of sectors and the required criteria will be published. One month after, the NGOs can apply. Those interested in infrastructural funds can apply in March.
Prof. Borg said MCCF was going through a process of constant renewal and the changes were not only cosmetic. The changes were linked to its operations, the internal relations and the people it worked with, he explained.
In a heartfelt appeal, Ms Coleiro Preca called on the Maltese and Gozitans to support and donate in this year's edition of l-Istrina, which she described as "a celebration of solidarity".
The Maltese and Gozitans had a unique characteristic where they constantly thought of others and it was important to help out the MCCF in its cause to help those suffering from cancer.
"Sometimes I can barely sleep as I worry that we won't be able to help everyone - this is my biggest fear and concern," she said.
Everyone had the right to have a chance to live and this year's fundraiser should be a catalyst, together with the stakeholders, to work to save the lives of others, Ms Coleiro Preca said.
Among the events that will be held in the run-up to l-Istrina, which will take place on December 26, is a bike ride for motorcycles and bicycles on October 26, a fine arts auction on November 21 and, two days later, the Fun Run.
The ever popular Paqpaqli ghall-Istrina will take place on December 7 and, for the first time ever, Ms Coleiro Preca and her husband Edgar will visit every single Gozitan town and village on Christmas Day.