Hospice Malta is deeply grateful to the Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) for their ongoing commitment to advancing palliative care in Malta and Italy. Through their creativity and generosity, they have not only elevated our mission with international recognition but also provided vital support to our mission.

This December, ITS Malta partnered with CAST Alimenti in Brescia and the Minetti laboratories in Bergamo to embark on an ambitious project: the Winter Games Express, a 52metre chocolate train designed to challenge the Guinness World Record for the world’s longest chocolate train. Built across Malta and Italy, the train is not only a feat of craftsmanship but also a symbol of compassion, with proceeds dedicated to supporting Hospice Malta and Associazione Cure Palliative ODVETS in Bergamo, Italy — two organisations committed to providing dignified, holistic endoflife care.

Two-Day Fundraising Event in Valletta 

On the 12^th and 13^th of December, ITS students and staff hosted a two-day public fundraising event in Valletta. Visitors enjoyed homemade hot chocolate and chocolates, lovingly prepared through this Malta–Italy partnership. Every purchase directly supported patients and families receiving free palliative care services from Hospice Malta, as well as those cared for by Associazione Cure Palliative ODV ETS in Bergamo.

More than fifty volunteers from ITS, Hospice Malta, and Associazione Cure Palliative ODV ETS joined forces to prepare for this initiative, demonstrating how international collaboration can blend culinary artistry with compassion.

Festive Fun Factory at St Michael Hospice

The collaboration continued on 13^th December during Hospice Malta’s Festive Fun Factory at St Michael Hospice. ITS contributed to the celebrations with a stand offering mulled wine and chocolates, once again donating all proceeds to Hospice Malta. Their presence added warmth and festive cheer, while reinforcing the importance of community support in sustaining our services.

An International Effort Rooted in Care

The chocolate train project, weighing over a ton and stretching longer than a tennis court, is currently in Bergamo and will be displayed at the Palazzo della Regione Lombardia in Milan on 26^th January 2026, with the unveiling being part of the Cultural Olympiad leading up to the Milano Cortina Winter Games. 

Hospice Malta extends heartfelt thanks to ITS Malta for their dedication, creativity, and generosity. Their efforts not only raised essential funds but also helped spread awareness about the importance of palliative care. Together, we are proving that when communities unite — whether through chocolate trains or festive fundraising — we can make a real difference in the lives of those who need us most.

Anyone who wishes to support Hospice Malta may do so by donating via BOV Mobile Pay to 7993 3894.