Marking its fifth anniversary, the Qawra Learning Centre built by the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Malta Chapter shared its impact highlights, having hosted 1,353 families for free educational and therapeutic programmes and activities designed to keep families close over the past five years.
To commemorate this milestone and 50 years of RMHC around the world, US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Ken Toko and Joanna Raley, Political-Economic Professional Associate, were invited to tour the Learning Centre.
During their visit, Mr Toko and Ms Raley observed the diverse programmes and activities taking place, as well as the ongoing work on a state-of-the-art Motor Sensory Room, set to be inaugurated this summer. This room aims to stimulate users’ motor skills and promote interaction in a calming and engaging environment.
Over the past five years, the charity has helped 1,289 children and young people, and delivered 3,888 hours of sessions. It has also provided space and additional support to various NGOs and entities that share its mission. Additionally, 3,121 professionals and volunteers have dedicated their time to RMHC’s cause, demonstrating unwavering support and making a significant impact on the community.
“This milestone marks five years of dedicated service and impactful programmes that have made a difference to marginalised groups and our neighbouring communities,” said Martin Xuereb, Chairman of the RMHC Malta Chapter. “We believe that every child deserves the chance to succeed, and we are proud to have spent this time creating a safe environment for people who need a shoulder to lean on during difficult times and providing learning opportunities to those in need.”
Inaugurated in 2019, the purpose-built Learning Centre – a 360-square meter facility – has addressed a critical need for specialised and accessible support services for children facing challenges stemming from learning disabilities or social circumstances. It offers one-on-one and group counselling, family therapy, integration programmes, academic tutoring, educational workshops, professional development for educators, and training sessions for volunteers.
The Centre includes a multi-purpose hall for events and activities, a learning kitchen for life skills lessons, and a resource room with workspaces. Additionally, it serves as an autism-friendly space, offering a supportive environment for children with sensory difficulties. The premises also functions as a hub for 18 NGOs and public social work entities, facilitating various programmes for their service users.
The Learning Centre is the first major project of the RMHC Malta Chapter, which is part of a global network operating in more than 60+ countries and regions, benefiting millions of children and their families annually. Since its establishment in 2012, the RMHC Malta Chapter, a registered charity (VO/0778), has been committed to providing children and young people with access to specialised support to enhance their education and improve their quality of life.