Four out of every five vulnerable children have had their Christmas wish fulfilled, barely four days after the Children’s Dreams campaign was launched.

More than 250 children from families facing social and financial difficulties are however still waiting for a sponsor, including a group who are asking for ferry tickets.

The 14- to 18-year-olds have never had the opportunity to go on a holiday together and would like to go to Gozo.

Meanwhile, a 15-year-old has opted to reserve his gift for his mother: “I am autistic and due to my condition, I broke all of my mum’s chairs because they were made of leather, a material that irritates me.”

Eric has asked for six non-leather kitchen chairs that the family can use for Christmas dinner.

I would appreciate it if I were to be offered some work experience with animals

Some of the 1,888 children who will be receiving a customised gift through the campaign, which is running for the sixth year, are hosted at children’s homes.

Thomas, who has turned 18, is willing to become more independent. However, he has no qualifications apart from a school-leaving certificate.

He would like to further his education so as to be able to find a good job and is interested in following an electrical installations course. This way, he hopes to gain a licence with which he would be able to work as an electrician.

Another youth who is thinking about work experience is 16-year-old Neil, who lives in a residential home. His biological mother passed away when he was very young and he has since been hosted in various placements.

“I love animals as they make me feel happy and at ease,” he said.

“In fact, I own pets, including hamsters and rabbits. I would like more exposure to animals and I would truly appreciate it if I were to be offered some work experience with animals such as in a pet shop or at an animal sanctuary.”

The project, which follows a similar successful one in Lithuania, was brought over by Lina Pecorella and all of the children are monitored by the Foundation for Social Welfare Services.

Several of the wishes left unpledged are related to clothes.

Sponsors do not need to pledge new items to fulfil a dream. However, they should be in good condition.

More information on www.childrendreams.org, childrendreams@gov.mt or  by phoning 9928 2198.

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