At the conclusion of the 67th International SPAR Congress, a significant donation of €50,000 was made to Puttinu Cares in Malta for its work in supporting children with cancer and their families.

Leaving a lasting legacy

The presentation of the donation took place during the 67th International SPAR Congress in Malta, bringing around 300 senior executives from SPAR organisations around the world together. During the Congress, delegates saw the developments of SPAR in Malta, and shared insights from across the SPAR network. 

The donation of €50,000 was made on behalf of all SPAR country organisations in attendance at the Congress. The donation is in keeping with the community commitment inherent to the brand and leaving a legacy in the country in which this annual event is held. Through this significant contribution, SPAR delegates leave a positive, long-lasting legacy, making a real difference to children with cancer and their families in Malta. 

Puttinu Cares

In certain cases, children living in Malta need to travel abroad for specific cancer treatment, mainly to the UK. It is very expensive for children and families to spend extended periods of time away from home while this treatment takes place, creating a financial burden for families. 

Puttinu Cares supports both children and their families when they travel to the UK for this treatment by providing accommodation close to hospitals for families free of charge. Puttinu Cares is refurbishing a new facility near important treatment centres in London and with this donation, they will be able to complete the refurbishment. This building comprises 27 studio apartments for families and will be a home away from home as they support their children in their cancer treatment. 

Supporting through SPAR Own Brand

As part of the International SPAR Congress, product exhibitions showcase the latest ranges from SPAR Own Brand and our suppliers. With responsible retailing at the heart of SPAR, the products displayed during the congress this year have been donated to support local causes in Malta, reducing food waste. 

The wide range of SPAR Own Brand products will be donated to Foodbank Malta, YMCA Malta, Inspire Malta, and the Association for Abandoned Animals. We would like to thank our suppliers for their support of the Congress and of these local charities, helping SPAR country organisations to leave a lasting impression with important causes in Malta. 

About Puttinu Cares

Puttinu Cares was set up in October 2002 to care and support children with cancer and their families. The charity provides events and activities throughout the year to bring smiles to children and their families as they go through cancer treatment together. Additionally, Puttinu Cares offers help to children and families when they travel to the UK for further treatment by offering accommodation for the family free of charge, alleviating a huge burden on parents. At the moment, 25 apartments are available to hundreds of families in their time of need, with the goal to house more families in the future.