Malta's current cold spell is having a huge impact on the homeless. Operating on one of SOS Malta’s main pillars, social solidarity, the NGO has issued an urgent Facebook call for blankets to help the homeless beat the cold as temperatures remain low.

SOS Malta CEO Claudia Taylor-East says: “Although there are no statistics available, from what we hear from people, from Caritas and the feedback we receive from Dar Frate Francesco [a homeless shelter run by the Franciscan friars], we understand that there is homelessness in Malta.”

The NGO is asking for donations in the form of blankets, to help those who are suffering in the cold and those who cannot afford heating. Fleece blankets make the ideal donation due to their multi-purpose use: “They can sleep in a fleece blanket but then also wrap themselves warm during the day,” Claudia explains.

Donations are also being accepted in the form of jackets: “It is important that the jackets passed on to us are warm,” Claudia says, adding that SOS Malta is doing all it can to assist the situation.

Those interested in volunteering are also invited to get in contact with SOS Malta: “We always need volunteers – there’s always room for them,” Claudia says. 

Donations can be dropped off at 10, SOS Malta, Triq il-Ward, Sta Venera.