Pictured: A small group of members gathered to assemble the homeless hygiene packs in South Melbourne. The operation was controlled with social distancing, masks and hand sanitiser

The Order of Malta has been committed to serving the sick and poor for over 900 years. In this time, we have confronted diseases, natural disasters and wars. Today in all 120 countries we operate in, we fight Coronavirus.

Covid-19 hygiene packs distributed with Coats for the Homeless across Australia

In addition to distributing 6,000 Coats for the Homeless across every State and territory in Australia, our members and volunteers have also been providing hygiene packs to the homeless to help protect them during the pandemic.

The packs, containing facemasks, anti-bacterial wipes and personal items both protect and limit the transmission of Coronavirus amongst the homeless and wider community.

Food hampers for foreign students in Tasmania

In Tasmania, members have assisted foreign students who do not qualify for support from either the Commonwealth or State governments, by providing emergency food hampers. Many have lost their student jobs necessary to pay for their rent, food, tuition, transport and are unable to fly home during the pandemic.

Order of Malta Korea provides emergency relief kits to the vulnerable

Members and volunteers of the Order of Malta Korea put together an emergency relief project to assist underfed children, foreign workers and refugees amidst the COVID-19 outbreak.

The relief boxes, full of packaged food and personal hygiene products, were distributed in Daegu, Incheon and Seoul and were gratefully received, especially when many free meal services have had to temporarily suspend service during the pandemic.

Thermometers for Mae Sariang refugee camp and food parcels for vulnerable in Thailand

The Order of Malta Thailand purchased and donated nine infrared thermometers for Malteser International refugee camp at Mae Sariang, North of Thailand.

Malteser International is using the infrared thermometers to screen visitors as a measure to prevent the spreading of COVID-19 into the camp which is taking care of about 20,000 refugees.

They have also provided food bags to vulnerable households, including refugee families, the elderly, single parents and large families. Children in these homes were also gifted drawing books and colorful pencils to occupy their time during lockdown.

Food parcel deliveries in New Zealand

Members and volunteers in New Zealand assisted St Vincent de Paul with delivery of food parcels following a 400% rise in requests for their foodbank services following the disruption caused by Covid-19.

Assistance to senior Members
Regional Hospitallers contacted senior members offering assistance and support when social restrictions were introduced.