The 19th edition of L-Istrina, the country's biggest fund-raising event, has kicked off.
It is being held at Kirkop sports complex and will raise funds for the Community Chest Fund Foundation.
By 1.30pm, almost €300,000 had been raised. A record €5.5 million were raised last year.
President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, in a message in the run-up to L-Istrina, spoke on the way the Malta Community Chest Fund has been transformed to make it more relevant to today's needs.
She pointed out how the MCCF is now a registered foundation, with its own legal personality, with full transparency, and an organised framework of specific targets.
"Thanks to the generosity of the people of Malta and Gozo, which is so evident during L-Istrina, we are able to provide specialised treatment and care for people living with cancer and other severe chronic illnesses," she said.
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The MCCF also provides accommodation, transport, and subsistence for patients, receiving overseas treatment, and their families. It also assists individuals and families experiencing financial difficulties.
The President inaugurated the event at noon, accompanied by the Prime Minister,...
