Caritas has announced the passing of its former director, Mons. Victor Grech, at the age of 95. Dun Grech leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, having dedicated his life to helping those battling substance abuse and advocating for social change.

Back in 1984, he spearheaded Caritas’ prevention and rehabilitation programmes against drug abuse, and a year later, he established Malta’s first Therapeutic Community for individuals struggling with addiction. His work didn’t stop there - he was a driving force behind the country’s first residential shelters for men and women in need, as well as a rehabilitation home for prisoners with drug problems.

His influence reached beyond Malta, as he played an important role in the foundation of Caritas Europa and served on the boards of Caritas Internationalis and Caritas Europa.

Dun Grech’s tireless efforts earned him some of Malta’s highest honours. In 1993, he was named a Member of the National Order of Merit, and in 2013, he was elevated to Officer of the National Order of Merit for his lifelong commitment to the welfare of the Maltese people. On a European level, he was awarded the European Citizen Award in 2012, after being nominated by MEPs Louis Grech and Simon Busuttil.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola honored Dun Victor Grech in an emotional tribute, calling him 'the Maltese saint who will remain in our hearts forever' and 'an icon of love, unity, and inspiration for all Maltese and Gozitans'. She expressed her pride in seeing him receive the European Citizen Award and urged people to 'not only continue what Dun Victor started, but to expand, strengthen, and nurture it'.

Rest in peace, Dun Victor