A record sum of €1,275,442 was raised during the Feast of Generosity by Id-Dar tal-Providenza on New Year’s day.

The dry but rather cool weather did not dampen the enthusiasm of the large crowds that made it to Siġġiewi to make their donation under the big tent set up outside. Various parishes in Malta and Gozo made special collections during church celebrations and presented them during the telethon.

The director, Fr Martin Micallef, said this year’s edition had once again shown the solidarity with and generosity of the Maltese people towards Id-Dar tal-Providenza. He said these funds would enable the home to continue providing a better quality of life for its residents.

The first official visitor was Archbishop Charles Scicluna, who also celebrated Mass in the home’s chapel. Other visits during the day were made by President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca and her husband Edgar, Economy Minister Chris Cardona, Leader of the Opposition Adrian Delia, parliamentary secretary Anthony Agius Decelis, Archbishop Emeritus Paul Cremona and Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Galea Curmi.

Members of Parliament from both sides of the House and representatives of constituted bodies also made it to Siġġiewi and took time to answer the phones.