Since its inauguration a year ago, more than 45 children and young people on the autism spectrum and others living with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder were among the first users of the Ronald McDonald House Charities’ Learning Centre in Qawra.

RMHC has partnered with several organisations including ADHD Malta and the Autism Parents Association during its first year allowing them access to its purpose-built premises to provide support services to young clients and their families or carers.

The charity said that it also worked closely with the University of Malta’s counselling, mental health, and literacy departments to host a variety of programmes and services.

A total of 65 counselling sessions for parents and children were held at the Learning Centre in 2019 and earlier this year. More than 30 parents and carers participated in a specific programme providing them with the skills and strategies required to support children with ADHD.

The charity also welcomed anti-bullying NGO bBrave and the Inspire Foundation which will begin to hold activities at the centre soon.

In early 2020, RMHC collaborated with Malta’s National Literacy Agency to host groups of parents, caregivers, and children for reading activities and courses on language development. Talks are also under way with other organisations in order to extend RMHC’s reach in the community.

Through its Learning Centre, RMHC said that it seeks to safeguard the well-being of vulnerable children or those in need of educational support.

Covering an area of 360-square metres , the centre features training rooms and activity areas, including a fully equipped learning kitchen, for children and teens with learning or social challenges, as well as their families.

Last March, due to the risks posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, RMHC suspended its programmes and instead partnered with Caritas Malta to support the delivery of Solidarity Meals provided by The Alfred Mizzi Foundation.

With volunteers from Hili Ventures, McDonald’s staff, and sponsors, more than 50 cooked meals were packed at the Learning Centre daily to be delivered by Caritas’ helpers to families in the local area adversely impacted by the crisis.

RMHC Malta Chairman Martin Xuereb said, “in our first year we are proud to have been able to support children and families to cope with social and educational challenges. Covid-19 has changed the world, and over the last few months we have adapted the way in which we help the community in line with our mission to keep families close.”

RMHC Malta’s leading benefactor is Premier Restaurants Malta, the operator of nine McDonald’s restaurants in Malta and Gozo.

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