NGOs an important partner in country’s development

NGOs and the voluntary sector are "an important partner in the social and economic development of our country," minister Helena Dalli said. 

Speaking during a visit to the 'Welcome Centre' of the St. Jeanne Antide Foundation in Tarxien, the minister for social dialogue met with women attending empowerment classes at the centre. 

The foundation is run by the Sisters of Charity and lay volunteers and offers free counseling and 'emotional freedom' services to vulnerable people. 

Underlining the importance of such empowerment initiatives which equip women with more skills to aid their employability, Dalli said that this is especially necessary to empower women in financial difficulties or undergoing marriage separation. 

Dalli said that both government and NGOs working in the field of women's emancipation should focus more on the self-esteem of women, which many times hinders their progress.

The NGO gives these services to people with mental illness and their family members, families with financial difficulties, people who are experiencing challenging family issues, and the elderly. 

Some of the services that are offered by the foundation are given through different outreach programmes. 

The volunteers and professionals also encourage elderly persons to take a more active role in the community.  Other outreach work is done with families with financial difficulties.  The foundation also provides free home maintenance works to people with limited means. 

Dalli praised the foundation for taking up this challenging and noble task as it is resulting in better housing to families in need.  The Minister noted the organisation's efforts at training people with financial difficulties to manage better their finances, prepare healthier food, as well as make them more employable.

As regards to the foundation's work with the elderly, the Minister said that this is very much in line with government policy in this area, which is aimed at encouraging more active ageing.

She praised the Sisters of Charity and the volunteers for their dedication and professionalism.  She promised them her support as Minister responsible for NGOs and the voluntary sector. 

Dalli said that this government believes in the concept of an "open government" and her visit is part of an ongoing consultation process initiated by this government.

The services of St. Jeanne Antide Foundation are open to everyone and are free of charge.  The 'Welcome Centre' is at 51, Tarxien Road, Ħal Tarxien, and is open during week days from 7:30am to 5:15pm.