The GasanMamo Point 2 Point Challenge is raising money for Hospice Malta and the Children in Need Foundation
On 27 September, three lifelong friends – Daniel Abela, Douglas Barbaro Sant and Joseph Casha – will take on a special journey filled with effort, friendship and meaning. The GasanMamo Point 2 Point Challenge will see them run, swim and cycle across Malta and Gozo in a demanding one day event. All of this is being done to raise much needed funds for Hospice Malta and the Children in Need Foundation.
A Challenge with a Purpose
The three friends not only share memories but also a strong wish to give back to their community. Inspired by the important work of the two charities, they chose to turn their love for sport into a way to help others.
“This is not just about completing the challenge,” said Daniel Abela. “We want to use our strength and friendship to bring hope and support to those who need it most. Challenges like these are not easy, but they help bring people together and show what can be done when you push past your limits for something greater than yourself.”
What the Challenge Involves
The GasanMamo Point 2 Point is not your usual charity event. It is a serious test of strength and determination. The full route is 81 kilometres, starting at San Dimitri in Gozo and ending at Birzebbuga in Malta. It begins with a 15 kilometre run in Gozo, followed by a 6 kilometre open water swim to Malta, and ends with a 60 kilometre cycle down the coast to Birzebbuga. After that, the team will take a symbolic ride to the Hospice Malta headquarters in Santa Venera to honour the cause behind the challenge.
From the beginning, the event has had the support of GasanMamo Insurance. Their Managing Director, Julian J Mamo, said it is an honour to support the challenge, as it reflects the strength and determination shown every day by the people helped by the two charities.
Supporting Two Important Causes
Money raised from the GasanMamo Point 2 Point Challenge will be shared equally between Hospice Malta and the Children in Need Foundation. Both groups play a key role in supporting vulnerable people in our community.
Hospice Malta provides free palliative care to over 1,560 families every year. They help patients with serious illnesses such as cancer, ALS, multiple sclerosis and end stage organ failure. Their services include home visits, managing symptoms, lending medical equipment and offering emotional and spiritual support. All care is given at no cost to patients.
Alexia Demicoli, Chief Relationship Officer at Hospice Malta, said: “Our aim is to make sure every person lives their final days with dignity and care. Thanks to people like Daniel, Douglas and Joe, not only do we raise the money we need, but we also spread awareness so that no one feels alone at such a difficult time.”
The Children in Need Foundation works to improve the lives of vulnerable children in Malta, especially those in care homes. The foundation focuses on mental health and well-being, and has raised more than one million euro so far. Their work supports therapy, education, holidays for sick children, autism support, and safe spaces for homeless youth. One of their latest projects is the KIDS Haven at YMCA.
Fundraising Goal
The team is hoping to raise 163,828 euro and they are asking for both corporate and public support. Businesses can take part with a starting donation of 1,500 euro. Everyone is encouraged to help, as every donation counts and brings them closer to their goal.
Douglas Barbaro Sant said: “For us, it is not about how fast we finish. It is about giving someone a reason to hope.” Joseph Casha added: “This is nothing compared to what those children and patients go through. We are proud to do this for them.”
A support team will be working in the background to help on the day. The organisers have also thanked Transport Malta and Steve Darmanin for helping with the safety planning of the event.
How to Help
The GasanMamo Point 2 Point Challenge invites everyone to take part in this journey of courage and care. All money raised will be split equally between Hospice Malta and the Children in Need Foundation.
To donate:
Account name: The Children in Need Fund
Branch sort code: 44093
IBAN: MT93MMEB44093000000009110404002
Or donate online at: https://www.childreninneed.org.mt/donate-now
For more information, contact: Daniel Abela – [email protected], Douglas Barbaro Sant – [email protected], Joseph Casha – [email protected]
