Prime Minister Shares Meal With Residents And Staff At Santa Marija Community Rehabilitation Centre

Prime Minister Robert Abela visited the Santa Marija Community Rehabilitation Centre, operated by the Sedqa Agency in Ħal Farruġ. During his visit, he joined residents and staff for a meal organised by the residents themselves, using fruit and vegetables grown in the centre’s surrounding fields.

Accompanied by the Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, Michael Falzon, and Alfred Grixti, CEO of the Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS), the Prime Minister met with residents who prepared everything necessary for the meal. During the gathering, residents shared their experiences, discussing the challenges they faced as well as their hopes for the future. Some former residents also recounted their successful journeys through the programme and how they now give back by supporting others on their path to recovery.

Abela praised the residents’ courage in sharing their personal stories, Abela said, “Everyone can make mistakes, but it takes great courage to acknowledge them, accept them, and work tirelessly to rebuild your life. You are doing this with dignity and determination that should inspire many others.”

Prime Minister also recognised the invaluable work of the Santa Marija staff. Abela added, “You are not just professionals; you are people with big hearts who believe in change and believe in people. To every resident here, I want you to know that these staff members believe in you and are here to help you succeed. As a Government, we will continue to work to provide the support needed for anyone wanting to make a change in their life, giving them the tools and chance to do so.”

Charles Scerri, Operations Director at Sedqa, explained how residents now have the opportunity to share their experiences with children and young people through the programme ‘Hurt by others. Healed through others’. Delivered in Learning Centres across towns and villages, this initiative offers a space for residents to talk about their journeys, teaching life skills such as resilience and ways to live a better life.

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