Building Belonging Through Play

Building Belonging Through Play

on behalf of RAAH

We bring youth and families together through regular community activities that foster belonging, friendship and joy. RAAH is working alongside Vuci Kollettiva, Spark15, Third World Group and an incredible team of volunteers, we create safe, welcoming spaces where children can play, learn and build lasting connections. Our activities are open to families currently living in Open Centres as well as those who have moved into the community, because we believe relationships and a sense of belonging should continue long after someone changes address.

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About the project

Every child deserves the chance to laugh, play and feel part of a community. Together with Vuci Kollettiva, Spark15, Third World Group and a dedicated team of volunteers, RAAH organises monthly activities for children and families who are seeking asylum in Malta. We welcome families currently living in Open Centres, as well as those who have moved into the community, because friendships, trust and support should not end when someone’s housing situation changes. We recognise that these children’s friendships should keep remaining beyond the centres. Our activities create opportunities for children to simply be children while giving parents a chance to connect, rest and enjoy quality time together. Whether it’s a day at Playmobil FunPark, Esplora, the cinema, a play café, arts and crafts or seasonal celebrations, every activity strengthens confidence, friendships and a sense of belonging. Each outing costs between €50 and €200, depending on the activity and number of participants. Every donation goes directly towards transport, craft materials, food, drinks and activity costs. We keep expenses as low as possible by working with local businesses, seeking donated tickets and making every euro go further. Despite limited resources, we never let finances stop the fun. Every outing reaches 12–25 children, creating memories, friendships and opportunities that last long after the day ends. Whether you choose to donate, volunteer, sponsor an activity or provide complimentary tickets, you become part of making sure every child has a place where they are welcomed, included and celebrated.

Project Deliverables

  1. Deliver 24 monthly family activities over a 12-month period.
  2. Engage approximately 12–25 children per activity, reaching up to 300 participant attendances annually.
  3. Organise inclusive activities such as educational visits, arts and crafts, sports, cultural celebrations and recreational outings.
  4. Provide transport, refreshments and activity materials to ensure participation is accessible regardless of financial circumstances.
  5. Strengthen friendships and ongoing community connections between families living in Open Centres and those who have moved into the community.
  6. Recruit and support volunteers and community partners to deliver safe, welcoming and inclusive activities.
  7. Build partnerships with local businesses and organisations to secure donated tickets, venues and in-kind support, helping maximise the impact of every euro donated.

Project Beneficiaries

The project primarily supports children and families from refugee, asylum-seeking and migrant backgrounds living in Malta, including those currently residing in Open Centres and those who have transitioned into the wider community. By maintaining these relationships beyond the centres, we help children preserve friendships, strengthen their sense of belonging and reduce social isolation. Parents and caregivers also benefit through opportunities to build support networks, access community spaces and spend quality time with their children. The project additionally benefits volunteers and the wider community by encouraging meaningful intercultural exchange and social cohesion.