A Home Away From Home: Puttinu Cares Calls On The Nation To Unite This Good Friday
This Good Friday, 18th April 2025, Puttinu Cares will once again unite the Maltese and Gozitan people in a nationwide show of generosity during its annual marathon, broadcast live on all local television stations from 9am to 3pm and again from 9pm to midnight.
For over two decades, Puttinu Cares has been a vital lifeline for patients and families travelling to the United Kingdom for essential medical treatment. What began as an initiative to assist children suffering from cancer has since grown to support both children and adults.
Today, between 60 and 90 patients every month are forced to travel abroad for care, with many requiring long-term accommodation in central London — an expense that often adds immense strain to families already enduring enough.
Recognising this hardship, Puttinu Cares has, over the years, invested heavily in creating a network of free apartments for patients. To date, the organisation has secured 20 apartments near the Royal Marsden Hospital in Sutton.
And now, thanks to seven years of tireless effort and the unshakeable support of the Maltese public, the foundation has proudly acquired a freehold property just a short walk from Great Ormond Street Hospital near Russell Square in central London.
This new property, once fully developed, will house 29 additional apartments, bringing the total to 49 — all offered free of charge to patients and their families. The building will be named in honour of the late Dr Victor Calvagna, whose compassion and dedication continue to inspire.
To complete this monumental project, Puttinu Cares is inviting the public to take part in its Sponsor a Room initiative. Supporters can sponsor:
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A kitchen for €10,000
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A bedroom for €5,000
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A bathroom for €2,500
Those who donate will have the opportunity to leave a lasting tribute by having their name, the name of a loved one, group or business displayed on a plaque within one of the London apartments. Additionally, their name or logo will be featured during the Good Friday Marathon — a heartfelt tribute to their generosity, seen by thousands across the country.
This year’s marathon is more than a fundraiser — it is a celebration of what can be achieved when a nation comes together. Puttinu Cares is urging the public to tune in, donate and spread the word. Even those unable to sponsor a room can make a difference by sharing the message or contributing in any way they can.
Foreigners often marvel at the selflessness shown by the Maltese people — free accommodation for as long as necessary, made possible entirely through public donations. It is a reflection of the country’s culture of compassion and unity.
On 18th April, let Malta and Gozo once again stand together. Let’s give hope, dignity, and comfort to those who need it most.