MARIGOLD FOUNDATION
The Marigold Foundation is a philanthropic organization that stands as a testament to the power of collective effort in working to improve society. It is under the strong leadership of the former first lady, Michelle Muscat, wife of former prime minister Joseph Muscat.
- Since its inception, the organization has worked on several issues related to health and education, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. It embodies the principles.
- to improve the lives of Maltese people by organizing several events and awareness campaigns.
- The foundation focuses on the adoption of a non-reformist approach that seeks to ensure that the various challenges affecting society can be solved and future problems prevented.
- Every citizen has the right to receive quality healthcare facilities, but it is still an ongoing challenge in every country.
- Marigold Foundation aims to make this possible for everyone by setting up health facilities, supplying medicine, and offering the health sector human resources, especially to the underprivileged.
Under the management team headed by Michelle Muscat, the foundation remains unique in its pursuit of the intimate transformative social evolution and guarantees that endangered citizens will get appropriate medical assistance and lead healthy lives.
But the organization’s goals are not solely restricted to getting basic medical treatments.
Michelle Muscat, the driving force behind Marigold
Under the leadership of Mrs. Muscat, the foundation became a huge success. She uses her power to support causes that are pertinent to the improvement of the standard of living within society.
Having worked as a women’s, children’s, and social justice advocate, Michelle uses her power to support causes that are pertinent to the improvement of the standard of living within society.
Through the leadership of Michelle Muscat, the Marigold Foundation has been able to initiate advocacy-themed campaigns, build partnerships with local organizations and communities, and carry out pilot programs to solve some of society’s most pertinent problems.
Under her leadership, Marigold organized numerous fundraising events. Between 2015 and 2020, the foundation organized and participated in Five annual swimming challenges, raising €2.3 million.
Successful activities and initiatives of the Marigold Foundation
Launched in 2014, the foundation has organized several activities and campaigns.
Cardiac Awareness Campaign
The campaign took place for the first time in 2022 on Marigold’s eighth anniversary. The foundation donated an echocardiogram machine, a Philips EPIQ CVx, to the Department of Cardiology at Mater Dei Hospital.
It offers advanced imaging of the heart and can detect early changes in the pumping of the organ. After COVID, more than 1000 people in Malta die annually due to heart attacks.
This machine helps treat cardiovascular diseases and prevent the consequences at their initial stage.
This year, on February 14th, Marigold conducted the informative Cardiac Awareness Campaign third time in a row on its tenth anniversary to create awareness of heart health conditions.
Various experts from the field of cardiology, Dr. Alice May Moorewere, and heart failure nurses Sheldon Attard and Janet Caruana were in attendance this year and spoke about the importance of heart health and how to take care of it.
The campaign program was organized by the Marigold foundation in collaboration with the Cardiac Unit at Mater Dei Hospital and the Archaeology Museum.
Teatru Cafe. Addressing this occasion, Mrs. Joseph Muscat spoke about the foundation’s goals and aspirations in improving the lives of the citizens of Malta. The aim was to educate the general public about the difference between a heart attack and heart failure.
2. Pink October-Movember Campaign
It is one of the foundation’s most notable campaigns. The Pink October-Movember campaign began in 2015 to raise awareness about cancer and support NGOs and patient support groups.
Mrs Muscat speaking at the the Pink Oct – Mov ’23 Campaign
                Source: @michmuscat
Last year’s campaign focus was on breast cancer and other female cancers, such as ovarian and cervical cancer.
The goal was to educate women on how to prevent these cancers, stay healthy, and also be able to detect early signs and do the necessary screening.
In addition, the campaign raised awareness about men’s health issues, specifically testicular and prostate cancer. The program also covered the effects that cancer has on the mental health of patients and their caregivers.
 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 campaignÂ
The key events of the previous Pink October-Movember Campaign included the bike ride, the Pink Zebra Walk, and numerous awareness sessions at schools, offices, and local councils.
These events helped create awareness in the country about cancer prevention and early detection while also raising funds for research in the field.
3. World Autism MonthÂ
The foundation celebrates World Autism Month annually in April. The most notable was the one in 2020 when the group lit up the Mdina Bastions in blue to mark the occasion and support the families dealing with the additional challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The foundation has actively supported people with autism and their families. The annual “Light It Up Blue” event is the result of the foundation’s consistent collaboration with the Autism Parents Association.
The Mdina Gate lit up in blue Â
In 2023 the Marigold Foundation campaign led by World Autism Month 2023 in Europe. The Marigold Foundation collaboration with several other groups lit up the Meeting Place in blue and organized a literary and music event by young talents on the autism spectrum.
It was an immense opportunity for the young talents to showcase their creativity. The effort was to build an inclusive and safe space in society for autistic people.
The main focus was on raising awareness about the obstacles and discrimination faced by people with autism and advocating for their human rights to be recognized and supported in all areas of life.
Addressing the event, Chairperson of the Marigold Foundation, Michelle Muscat, spoke about the need to create comfortable spaces for persons on the spectrum.
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.
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:
- 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.
Supporting the Marigold Foundation
Individuals and organizations can support the foundation’s initiatives and get involved in several ways.
- Donate: One can make direct donations and support the organization’s initiatives, including those focused on health, education, and social welfare. The funds are used to pay for medical needs, advocacy, and education that will help those in need. For details regarding donations, donors can contact the foundation’s official contact number: +356 9991 2373.
- Volunteer: Anyone can offer their time and services to support the events held by the foundation. Participating, organizing events, and running campaigns are great ways to aid the charity.
- 3. Spread the word: Educate people on the foundation’s goals and aspirations. Encourage them to join campaigns, volunteer, and donate.
The Marigold Foundation is not just a charitable organization—it is a testament to Michelle Muscat’s dedication to making the world a better place. Through her leadership, the foundation has transformed countless lives, and its legacy of social change will undoubtedly continue for generations to come. As Malta and the world face new challenges, the Marigold Foundation will remain at the forefront of efforts to create a more compassionate and sustainable future for all.
