Soup Kitchen OFM Valletta Wins This Year's European Citizen's Prize
The winner of the European Citizen's Prize in Malta this year is Soup Kitchen OFM Valletta, led by Fr Marcellino Micallef. The winner was nominated by MEP David Casa.
Awarded every year by the EP, the European Citizen's Prize rewards a project in each EU member state, organised by people or organisations that encourage mutual understanding, co-operation that builds a stronger European spirit, and EU values enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU.
The Franciscan Friars began operating the Soup Kitchen OFM Valletta project in 2021, soon after inflation of food prices drove those on the periphery to seek aid. It's a prime example of European solidarity among citizens. By relying on donations and volunteers, the project created a community of solidarity and understanding to uphold the dignity of those at risk of poverty and social exclusion. At the core of the project is a concern with the most fundamental European right: human dignity.
The award ceremony in Malta will be held towards the end of summer, and the winners from all member states will be honoured in a central award ceremony at the EP in Brussels during the first week of November.
