Old Maltese lira coins that might be hidden in a handbag or tucked at the bottom of a drawer can be given to the YMCA to fund their support services for the homeless in Malta.

With around €25.5 million-worth of old Maltese lira coins in circulation, YMCA Valletta yesterday made an appeal called the Last Good Deed of the Maltese Lira.

Instead of taking the money to the Central Bank, YMCA is asking people to donate any Maltese lira coins by no later than Thursday. Last week, the Central Bank issued a last reminder for people that it would exchange any lira coins for euros until February 1.

"Contributions of any size in the old currency may bring joy to families in need, victims of homelessness and vulnerable children," YMCA Valletta chairman Jean Paul Mifsud said.

"This way money that has been left unused for at least the past two years may be put into good use," he added.

The organisation provides a home for 24 homeless people, of whom seven are children, and last year helped an average of 50 people on a daily basis.

Besides offering shelter to people who are already homeless, YMCA Valletta works with hundreds of vulnerable people who are either threatened with homelessness or are temporarily out of a place to stay - usually because of domestic violence.

The donations can be dropped off at YMCA Valletta, 178 Merchants Street, Valletta, or picked up by volunteers from people's homes or offices.

For more information, call Mario Saliba on 2122 8038, or visit www.ymcahomeless.org.