This year’s charity festival L-Istrina marks the 19th edition of this annual 12-hour event. Last year, L-Istrina raised over €5.5 million for the Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation. This telethon is broadcast on all local TV stations, with viewers making their donations over the phone. The event is regularly attended by Malta’s political and civic leaders and supported by private entities too. The collection of funds is channelled to help Philanthropic institutions and many individuals with different medical needs.