Little Hands, Big Hearts: Children Baking Figolli for Charity

In the heart of Malta, the aroma of freshly baked figolli wafts through the air at the St. Catherine’s Primary School. It’s not just any baking session; it’s a lesson in charity, as these young bakers are preparing traditional Maltese Easter treats to raise funds for a local cause.

Figolli: A Maltese Tradition

Figolli, almond-shaped biscuits filled with clotted cream and glazed with icing, are a staple of Maltese Easter. They’re not just sweets; they’re a symbol of spring, of family, and of community. This year, they’re also a symbol of kindness and giving back.

Mrs. Maria Camilleri, the school’s home economics teacher, leads the baking session. “Figolli are more than just a tradition,” she says, “They’re a way to teach our children about sharing and giving. We’re not just baking figolli; we’re baking smiles.”

Baking for a Cause

The figolli baked by these youngsters aren’t just for their families. They’re for sale, with all proceeds going to the Malta Community Chest Fund. This charity supports various causes, including healthcare, education, and social welfare.

Eight-year-old Matthew is carefully icing his figolla. “I’m making these to help other children,” he says, his tongue sticking out in concentration. “I want them to have Easter treats too, and maybe even new books for school.”

His classmate, Sarah, nods in agreement. “We’re lucky to have so much,” she says, “I want to share what I have with others.”

Community Support

The school’s initiative has received overwhelming support from the local community. Parents have donated ingredients, and local businesses have offered to sell the figolli.

Mr. Joseph Borg, owner of Borg’s Bakery in Msida, is one such supporter. “It’s wonderful to see the children learning about charity at such a young age,” he says. “We’re happy to help. After all, it’s our community too.”

The school plans to sell the figolli at the Msida Easter Fair, with hopes of raising thousands of euros for the Malta Community Chest Fund.

As the children pack their figolli, ready to be sold, Mrs. Camilleri smiles. “This is what Easter is about,” she says. “Not just the sweets, but the spirit of giving and sharing.”

So, this Easter, as you bite into your figolla, remember the little bakers of St. Catherine’s Primary School. Remember their big hearts and their small hands, baking not just figolli, but hope and kindness.