In a significant move to foster inclusivity and excellence in sports, the government has announced the launch of the National Assistance Scheme for Paralympic Athletes. This initiative is designed to provide essential financial support to Paralympic athletes for acquiring adaptive sports equipment necessary for their training and competition.
Recognizing the importance of equal opportunities in sports, the government acknowledges the unique challenges faced by Paralympic athletes in accessing specialized equipment tailored to their needs. The scheme aims to empower these athletes to achieve their full potential and represent the nation with pride on the international stage.
Many Paralympic athletes encounter financial barriers that hinder their ability to obtain the adaptive sports equipment they require to compete at their best. Existing support mechanisms, including sponsorships and grants, often fall short in meeting the diverse needs of athletes across various sports disciplines.
To bridge this gap, the government proposes the establishment of the National Assistance Scheme with an initial funding pledge of âŽ250,000. This funding will be allocated to eligible Paralympic athletes, enabling them to purchase the necessary adaptive sports equipment.
Minister Clifton Grima recalled the day when the Maltese Paralympic Committee started and reflected on the progress made since then. He stated, “The journey of the Maltese Paralympic Committee has been remarkable, and we are proud to support this movement through this scheme. The ministry offers its full support to our Paralympic athletes and is committed to ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed.”
Keith Bartolo, Vice Chairman of SportMalta, expressed his gratitude, saying, “I thank the Minister, the SportMalta Board of Directors, and the Management for supporting this scheme. I am glad that SportMalta was given the opportunity to be a small part of this Paralympic movement. This initiative is a testament to our collective commitment to fostering inclusivity and excellence in sports.”
Julian Bajada, General Secretary of the Maltese Paralympic Committee, addressed the press conference, stating, “Through this scheme, I am more than convinced that many can benefit significantly. This support will be a game-changer for our athletes, allowing them to focus on their training and competition without the added stress of financial constraints.”
