What Is the Marigold Foundation?
The Marigold Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Malta that focuses on improving people’s lives through health campaigns, social inclusion projects, and support for vulnerable groups.
Founded by Michelle Muscat in 2014, the foundation has played a central role in organizing national campaigns like breast cancer awareness walks, mental health discussions, and women empowerment initiatives.
Whether it’s helping fund a hospital’s new equipment or encouraging open conversations around mental well-being, Marigold has become a recognizable name in Malta’s voluntary and health sectors.
How the Foundation Began
The Marigold Foundation was set up by Michelle Muscat, the wife of former Maltese Prime Minister Joseph Muscat. Michelle’s vision was to create a platform where people from all walks of life could come together to support important causes — especially those related to health, education, and social issues.
In one of her early interviews, Michelle explained that she wanted to use her public role to “bring people together and support projects that might not otherwise receive attention.”
Despite some criticism over the foundation’s political connections, it has gained support from local councils, schools, hospitals, and private companies that regularly partner on various initiatives.
Key Areas of Work
1. Health Campaigns – Raising Awareness Where It Matters
One of the foundation’s best-known efforts is its focus on health awareness, particularly breast cancer and mental health. Every October, Marigold organizes a series of events for Pink October, encouraging women to go for screenings and check-ups.
They also raise money for:
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New cancer treatment machines
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Psychological support services for patients
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Community talks on early detection and prevention
These events often see hundreds of participants, including survivors who share their stories publicly to encourage others.
2. Women Empowerment
Through workshops, mentorship programs, and talks, Marigold helps women gain confidence, start small businesses, and feel safe in their communities. They often collaborate with other NGOs and professionals who offer training on topics like:
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Financial literacy
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Entrepreneurship
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Self-defense and legal rights
One real-world example is a series of workshops held in 2023 in collaboration with Business First Malta, where women were given resources to start side businesses from home.
3. Mental Health and Youth Support
Mental health is still a sensitive topic in many communities, but Marigold has worked hard to break the stigma. They’ve partnered with schools and youth centers to offer safe spaces for students to talk about anxiety, stress, and peer pressure.
In 2022, they launched a pilot project in Gozo where a mobile team visited schools weekly to provide mental health support. The initiative received positive feedback from parents and teachers alike.
4. Support for the Elderly and Marginalized Communities
Marigold runs community outreach programs aimed at elderly citizens, people with disabilities, and low-income families. Their volunteers regularly deliver food packages, assist with hospital visits, and organize activities to reduce isolation.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation was one of the first NGOs to coordinate help for older people stuck at home — providing both groceries and emotional support through a volunteer call system.
Real Impact: Numbers and Stories
Here are just a few outcomes that show how the foundation is making a difference:
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Over €1.5 million raised through events and donations
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Thousands of free cancer screenings facilitated
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Hundreds of volunteers engaged in outreach programs
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Regular media campaigns on mental health, women’s rights, and education
In one touching example, a breast cancer survivor named Daniela shared how she first discovered her condition during a Marigold-sponsored awareness event. “If it wasn’t for the push I got from that campaign, I might have waited too long,” she said during an interview on national TV.
Who Partners with the Marigold Foundation?
The foundation works closely with:
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Local Councils and public schools
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The Ministry of Health
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Companies like BOV, Farsons, and Eden Leisure Group
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Media outlets that promote campaigns
These partnerships help increase the reach and funding of various initiatives. For example, during Pink October 2023, a collaboration with Mater Dei Hospital led to the donation of a new mammography unit.
Transparency and Public Scrutiny
Like many organizations with links to public figures, the Marigold Foundation has faced questions about transparency. Critics have called for more public reporting of finances and clearer separation from political roles.
The foundation has responded by emphasizing its partnerships and community-led structure, stating that its focus remains on helping people — regardless of political context.
While these concerns are valid and part of any healthy democracy, the foundation’s ongoing work speaks for itself in many cases, as seen through visible community projects and independent partnerships.
Mrs Muscat speaking at the the Pink Oct – Mov ’23 Campaign
Source: @michmuscat
How You Can Get Involved with Marigold Foundation ?
Getting involved is simple:
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Visit the official Marigold Foundation website
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Sign up as a volunteer for events or campaigns
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Donate directly through their secure portal
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Join or host a fundraising event
Every contribution, big or small, helps make an impact. From helping organize a charity walk to sponsoring a workshop, there are many ways to contribute to a better Malta.
Michelle Muscat, Transport Malta Executive Head Joe Bugeja, Valletta Vice Mayor Ray Azzopardi and Floriana Vice Mayor Vince Borg commemorating the Pink Oct – Mov’ 21 campaign
The Marigold Foundation continues to be an active force for good in Maltese society. Through health awareness, women empowerment, mental health support, and community outreach, it has helped thousands of individuals directly — and inspired many more to give back.
While it operates in a space that’s occasionally debated, its real-world results and community presence make it a notable example of how civic leadership can drive social change.
Challenges Faced by Michelle Muscat and the Marigold Foundation
As with any public figure, Michelle Muscat’s philanthropic journey has not been without its challenges.
From the controversies surrounding her husband’s political career to public skepticism about the motivations behind her charitable work, Michelle has had to continuously prove the legitimacy and transparency of the Marigold Foundation.
Moreover, as the foundation has grown, it has faced the logistical hurdles that come with managing a large-scale nonprofit organization.
Ensuring that funds are allocated effectively and that projects deliver measurable impact has required Michelle Muscat and her team to work tirelessly. Yet, despite these obstacles, the Marigold Foundation continues to thrive, thanks to Michelle Muscat’s unwavering commitment and leadership.
- Education for All One of the foundation’s flagship initiatives is its focus on education. The Marigold Foundation has provided scholarships for underprivileged students, ensuring they have access to the same opportunities as their peers. By partnering with schools, universities, and local educational institutions, Michelle Muscat and her team have supported a new generation of learners who might otherwise not have had the resources to pursue higher education.
- Healthcare and Medical Assistance The Marigold Foundation has also been involved in healthcare, particularly in supporting initiatives that provide medical care to underserved populations. From supporting cancer research to funding programs that offer free health screenings, the foundation has worked diligently to ensure that healthcare is accessible to everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
- Environmental Conservation and Sustainability In addition to social welfare programs, the Marigold Foundation has embraced the importance of environmental conservation. Michelle Muscat has been a vocal advocate for sustainability and eco-friendly practices, and the foundation has initiated several projects that promote green living, from reforestation efforts to waste reduction campaigns.
- Support for Women and Children With a particular emphasis on gender equality, the foundation has also supported initiatives aimed at empowering women and children. Michelle Muscat believes in fostering environments where women can thrive in both their personal and professional lives, and her foundation has launched programs to mentor women in leadership and business, as well as support children facing abuse or neglect.
Key Initiatives of the Marigold Foundation Over the years, the Marigold Foundation has launched numerous initiatives that have garnered attention and support both within Malta and internationally. Some of the foundation’s key programs include:
