Abandoned space to be regenerated into picnic area in memory of Dr Victor Calvagna

An abandoned space in Mosta with an area of around 8,500m2 will be regenerated into a picnic area for residents to enjoy, the government said.

This area will be embellished with tree planting and a number of picnic benches. Parks Malta will be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of this picnic area.

Parks Malta will be planting trees as a remembrance of Dr Victor Calvagna’s work. In collaboration with Puttinu Cares, Parks Malta will be planting a tree for every donation exceeding €300. Trees planted will carry a commemorative label in remembrance of both survivors and those whose lives were taken away by cancer. Eventually more trees will be planted in sites which fall under the responsibility of Parks Malta.

This initiative forms part of the Puttinu Cares fundraising marathon, taking place on Good Friday. The marathon aims to support patients and their families and the construction of new accommodation in the UK.

The initiative was announced by Minister for the Environment, Energy and Enterprise Miriam Dalli, Parks Malta Director General Adrian Attard, and Puttinu Cares CEO Rennie Zerafa. Minister Miriam Dalli said this initiative aims to remember Dr Calvagna’s work, where his work was crucial for various cancer patients and their families.

“During difficult times, Dr Calvagna and the team at Puttinu Cares were essential for young patients and their families. Such initiative will serve as a celebration of work by Dr Calvagna with various patients, with those who unfortunately died and cancer survivors,” highlighted Minister Dalli.

Puttinu Cares Chief Executive Rennie Zerafa said, “On Good Friday, whoever donates a pledge will have the opportunity to plant a tree in name of their dearest. With this initiative we will continue assisting patients who will need accommodation in the UK, all whilst enhancing the natural environment”.

Minister Miriam Dalli said the government and Parks Malta are committed to continue providing more open spaces to be enjoyed by the public. She added that she looks forward to seeing more projects to be enjoyed by residents within their locality.

Present for the launch of this project attended Dr Victor Calvagna’s family.