GRTU called on businesses and other interested parties to donate money, specific food items and pharmaceuticals and medical goods typically used in accident and emergency situations.

They said that they had been advised that the items most in need were baby food, nappies and baby milk.

“Libya is not just another country. It is a country that we Maltese have known and worked in for many years. By and large, our workers and businesses in Libya have contributed to Malta’s current standard of living. Many Maltese have Libyan friends and associates, and there are ties of friendship that go beyond the political rhetoric of the past. Libya is one of our closest neighbours, and it it’s our Christian duty to help them in this hour of need,” the GRTU said.

SOS Malta, meanwhile, has called on the Maltese public to donate money for a hygiene kit which is worth €20, and which includes sanitary supplies, a towel, a comb, soap, a toothbrush, toothpaste and underwear. It said that in such a situation, “staying clean can mean staying alive.”

Both have set up bank accounts to receive donations. GRTU set up account number 0144010268800 at Lombard Bank (IBAN number MT48 LBMA 0500 0000 0001 4401 0268 800 and swift code LBMAMTMT), while donations to SOS can be sent to APS account 20000245111, HSBC account 006070932050 or Bank of Valletta account 40013974950.

Food items can be delivered to the GRTU premises in Republic Street, Valletta, and people delivering bulky food items can call 9949 9401 for specific arrangements. Pharmaceuticals and medical goods are being collected in a specific place, with people wishing to donate these items asked to call 9949 9401 so that arrangements can be made.

Donations to SOS Malta can also be made online through http://www.sosmalta.org/donate_now, as well as by post to SOS Malta, 10, Triq il-Ward, Santa Venera, and by visiting the NGO’s premises during office hours.