Malta’s Homeless Population Is On The Rise: 107 Individuals Assisted By YMCA In Last Three Years
Homelessness in Malta is on the rise – so much so, that in the past three years, 107 homeless individuals required support from Malta’s YMCA team.
”Another five individuals were reached, one of which was found to be sleeping rough in Gozo,” Anthony Camilleri, the Chief Executive Officer and National General Secretary, and the rest of the YMCA team stated.
The localities where these individuals were reached are Valletta, Floriana, Bugibba, Marsa, Gzira, Birkirkara, St. Paul’s Bay, Ħamrun, Sliema, and Ta’ Xbiex.
Three years ago, YMCA malta launched the Y Visible Outreach Service with the aim of addressing and managing the homelessness issue in Malta.
It involves the participation of volunteers and staff members to visit various locations around the island and identify people who are sleeping on the streets, providing them with food, clothing, blankets, and other services.
According to a study by the Marketing Advisory Services (commissioned by YMCA) shows that ”in the case of females, ‘Domestic Violence’ is the leading cause of homelessness (50.6%), followed by ‘Financial Problems’ and ‘Mental and Psychological Health’. Whereas males leading cause of homelessness is ‘Financial Problems’ (26.3%), ‘Loss of Job’ (22.2%), and ‘Immigration’ (18.2%)”.
YMCA is constantly receiving calls and messages, with reports of homeless people in several localities.
People are residing in places like gardens, marina areas, benches, and even dangerous and sketchy places like construction areas, abandoned and dark places.
Many of these individuals feel ashamed and embarrassed to reach out – the YMCA team wants to assure these individuals that when they are ready to come out, they will be provided with help.
If you are willing to support this outreach project you can either donate financially via YMCA Malta BOV donation number 79556605 or donate your time and be part of the Y Visible outreach team by sending your application to [email protected].
All volunteers will be provided with the necessary training and resources.
Are you concerned about this rise in the homeless population in Malta?
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