News

Care for those suffering was never needed more

The Order of Malta’s members and volunteers are combatting the consequences of COVID-19 all over the continent

London, 25 April 2020

As the pandemic continues to take lives, help is organised over many areas of activity to meet needs and combat the spread of the deadly virus. In all its projects, the Order has ensured that strict hygiene measures are in place.

The European perspective

From Russia to Malta, support covers a wide range of activities: bringing food parcels and medicine to the housebound, providing daily meals for the homeless, assisting in constructing and preparing temporary hospitals, carrying out ‘drive in’ tests, attending to forgotten groups such as refugees and illegals.  

Italy – food parcels for the housebound

The Order has first aid units in Austria, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland and Italy, all providing emergency services. In a number of countries, including Britain, iPads have been donated to the residents in care homes, in others (Hungary, Germany, Romania), actions include online schooling for children at home. Soup kitchens across Europe have been closed, with daily meals being cooked, packed, and provided to the needy.

The national perspective

In London, kits of clothing and basic supplies are packed up every week and distributed to the homeless in hotels, hostels, and in Trafalgar Square.

In the Order’s 70 care homes across four counties, as well as donating boxes of chocolates and sending cards of good wishes, iPads have been donated so that the residents can stay in touch with loved ones. Special food boxes for NHS doctors and nurses have been distributed, in recognition of their invaluable work.

Britain – the joy of iPad contact!

A hotline has been put in place so that the regulars at the kitchens and hospices can ask for help. or simply stay in contact to combat loneliness.

In Scotland, food parcels are being made up and given out to the homeless and the housebound, plus transport provided for patients to hospital in central Scotland.