€6,573,105 million was raised during yesterday’s 12-hour fundraising marathon L-istrina, passing last year’s telethon amount raised of €6,214,190 million.

This 22nd edition of the event was hosted by President Dr George Vella, and was shown live on all local television stations.

The President thanked everyone for their generosity, saying that this was a demonstration of the heart of the Maltese people. This was a sign of hope and courage.

During the evening he also suggested that in the future Boxing Day should be known as – Jum is-Solidarjetà Nazzjonali (A Day of National Solidarity) or Jum l-Ghaqda Nazzjonali (A Day of National Unity).

“Year after year, during the telethon, the Maltese and Gozitans put aside their political and other differences and realise how strong they can be when they act in unison. “Over the years, irrespective of the troubles and divisions that we faced, everyone has come together for L-Istrina, for a common cause,” said the President.

He went on to say that “this is a cause around which we can all rally, the unity that I have been talking about for a long time and for which I will continue to speak up. This is a day on which, in effect, all the Maltese put aside their differences and contribute. Let us look at this day, and each other, and realise that we are part of a civilised country with a very big heart.”

The donation lines remain open and the general public is invited to continue donating on the following numbers: 5190 2030 – €50; 5180 2012 – €25, 2122 6226 – pledges of donations of €300 and over; 5061 9201 (SMS) – €11.65; 7935 9565 – BOV Mobile Pay.

Photograph: L-Istrina

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