Today marks the 57th anniversary of the foundation of Id-Dar tal-Providenza

Monsignor Michael Azzopardi, Ecclesiastical Assistant General of The Malta Catholic Action had, for some time, nursed a ‘dream’ that would help improve the quality of life of people with disabilities who for one reason or another could not stay any longer with their parents.

On the 12th September 1965 he aired his idea during a radio programme – that of opening the first residential home in Malta for persons with disability. A young lady who heard the programme was so moved by his idea that she sought him out and gave him a cheque for Lm100 (around €230) – money she had saved for a holiday abroad!  Monsignor Azzopardi always considered this important date as the foundation date of Id-Dar tal-Providenza.  On that day he felt that this woman’s gesture was a sign from God to realise his dream.

In two years he managed to build the first residence in Siġġiewi which he named Villa Mons. Gonzi and on the 11th of February 1968, the first three residents were welcomed at the home.

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