A total of almost €330,000 is being allocated between 60 organisations across Malta and Gozo that suffered damage during Storm Harry which swept across the islands in January.

This was announced by Minister for Inclusion and Volunteering Julia Farrugia during visits to the Sliema Aquatic Sports Club and RMJ Horse Rescue – two organisations in Malta that were drastically affected by this storm as they are located on the coast where the storm was most severe, while the storm also had a negative impact on the financial operations of RMJ Horse Rescue.

It was explained that the consequences of Storm Harry for voluntary organisations were varied, with many finding themselves in a situation where they had to stop or drastically reduce their activities. A number of organisations lost essential equipment, suffered damage to their premises and had to reschedule services and initiatives that had already been scheduled.

This led to several communities being temporarily left without the regular support they depend on, while volunteers had to face an additional burden to put their organisations back on a stable footing.

The financial support process began with a formal registration of damages by voluntary organisations, following a call issued by the MCVS. This call gave the opportunity to all organisations that had suffered damage or disruption to their operations due to Storm Harry, whether in terms of buildings, equipment, project sites, volunteer resources or community programmes, to declare the damages and request the necessary assistance.

Financial support is being provided according to clear and transparent parameters, with organisations requesting up to €10,000 receiving 100% of the requested amount, those requesting between €10,001 and €50,000 receiving up to 80%, while requests exceeding €50,000 receiving up to 60% of the requested amount.

In each case, the maximum aid per organisation is limited to €30,000. Furthermore, organisations may only benefit from one source of public funding linked to this storm, to ensure a fair and equitable distribution of available resources.

Minister Julia Farrugia explained that, “Storm Harry did not only hit our infrastructure but it touched the hearts of many voluntary organisations who give their time and energy every day to make a difference in the lives of the Maltese. However, what we have seen in recent weeks has been very inspiring, where despite the damage, despite the difficulties, these organisations have not stopped. They have continued to serve, they have remained present and they have continued to show that volunteering in Malta is not simply an act of charity but a way of life, a commitment to each other as a community.”

For a voluntary organisation to be eligible, it must be registered and compliant with the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations.

Photo: DOI

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