Homeless Maltese Couple Who Had To Resort To Birkirkara Garden Move In With A Relative
A Maltese couple whose homelessness story shocked the nation has found alternative accommodation, at least temporarily, moving in with a relative.
PL MP Cressida Galea told Lovin Malta that she has been in contact with the couple, who informed her that they’re staying with a relative.
The story of Rayther Vella and his wife, who announced that they were sleeping in Birkirkara’s Stazzjon Gardens due to sky-high rent prices, went viral when it was revealed by Lovin Malta last week.
“Look at what we’ve fallen into. Can’t even find a place to rent, with sky-high rents wherever you look – plus, some landlords don’t even rent to Maltese people,” Vella said in a video uploaded to social media.
“Shameful, and no one cares at all. If there’s someone who wants to join us tonight, they can come and stay with us, and I’ll tell them thank you – because tonight, this is where we’ll be.”
Social organisations, including Caritas and YMCA, tried to find the couple and help put a roof over their heads but couldn’t find them.
The Housing Authority reacted by reiterating its support for Maltese citizens facing accommodation problems.
“While not referring to any specific case, the Authority would have spoken directly with all concerned parties when the case would be referred to us and we offer all types of help that we can,” the Authority told Lovin Malta.
“The authority offers temporary solutions via help on the first rental deposit up to €416 per month,” it noted, saying over 4,000 people had been helped in 2022 with over €7.7 million invested.
Are you concerned that homelessness is on the rise in Malta?
READ NEXT: Watch: Maltese-Australian Drag Racer Crashes And Tragically Dies During Race
