Residents of the Kordin Correctional Facility are set to play a key role in a heartfelt initiative that will assist countless Maltese and Gozitan families seeking treatment abroad.
These residents will be crafting furniture for 29 newly developed apartments by Puttinu Cares in London, which will provide shelter and comfort to patients and their families during some of the most challenging times in their lives. One of the inmates also wrote a letter to Puttinu, expressing his feelings about this initiative.
During a press conference, the Minister for Home Affairs, Security, and Employment, Byron Camilleri, highlighted the dual purpose of this initiative. “This project addresses two noble goals,” he explained, “offering support to those going through difficult times and providing rehabilitation opportunities for individuals who are determined to give back to society after their shortcomings.”
The minister emphasized the government’s ongoing focus on rehabilitation within correctional facilities. He noted the increase in professional staff employed by the Correctional Services Agency and collaboration with NGOs. This includes projects like the opening of a third halfway house, the first dedicated to female inmates. He described the collaboration with Puttinu Cares as a valuable extension of these efforts, benefiting both the correctional facility residents and society at large.
“Puttinu Cares is close to the heart of the Maltese and Gozitan people,” Minister Camilleri said, “and this project reflects that support. It offers hope—not only to those seeking medical treatment abroad but also to those within the correctional system who have learned from their mistakes and are ready to contribute positively.”
Chris Siegersma, CEO of the Correctional Services Agency, reinforced this sentiment, explaining that the project aligns with the agency’s mission to support social causes while giving inmates a chance to rehabilitate. “This initiative prepares inmates to reintegrate into society with a greater sense of responsibility,” he said.
Angele Cuschieri, President of Puttinu Cares, expressed pride in this collaboration, stating that the project honors the Maltese spirit of generosity. “These apartments aim to ease the burden on families, allowing them to focus solely on their loved ones’ treatment and recovery,” she said. The apartments, located close to London hospitals, will be provided at no cost to patients and families.
Cuschieri also highlighted the importance of the inmates’ contributions, noting that their work will alleviate the suffering of many patients and families enduring difficult times.
Josefa Sammut, a mother of two who must travel to England every six weeks due to a rare medical condition, shared her perspective during the press conference. She explained how the new apartments would greatly ease her family’s challenges. “Having a dignified place near the hospitals will make a significant difference in our lives,” she said. She also expressed her gratitude for the inmates’ efforts in making these apartments a reality.
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