GuateMalta Foundation was set up in 2014, and its main aim is to develop and sustain an ambitious number of projects, all assisting the needs of communities within Fr. Anton Grech’s parishes. For many Guatemalan youths, football is deeply ingrained in their culture but due to the heavy exposure to gangs, drugs, and violence, many fall in a vicious circle of crime which will eventually lead to many unfortunate and unnecessary deaths. Since we share the same love for sports, physical activity and total inclusion and this is clearly visible through the organization of the Teamsport Gozo Half Marathon, we decided to expand this love to reach those who are not as fortunate as we are. Our plan is that on the 16th of July, 15 members from the organizing committee of the Teamsport Gozo Half Marathon will go to Guatemala in person and give some of that joy which our beloved Half Marathon brings, through a series of projects specifically designed to help Guatemalan youths.

With the assistance of many Maltese beneficiaries, many events were orchestrated which raised funds for the construction of the GuateMalta Sports Arena in Izabal, Guatemala. The project shelters the thousands who love sports, especially football, but are extremely vulnerable to the numerous violent gangs which roam the area. Presently, this arena needs a roof which will enable events to take place all year round, irrelevant of the outside weather conditions. This will help Izabal remain active, in a sustainable, safe and youth-oriented environment. The cost of this project will total around 25,000 Euros but it is actually priceless for the many who will benefit from it. Through this website you will find continuous updates regarding the development of this project and the special video which could be found below is dedicated to those of you who would like to assist us in the completion of this precious goal. You will find an explanation of why this project is crucial, directly from the mouths of the much-affected Guatemalan youths.

We urge you to donate as much as you feel appropriate. We also understand that every drop counts and we are extremely grateful for the support we have recieved thus far.

We need your help to give these children the first chance they so deserve.

This is the reason why the concept behind ‘Fair Play’ was born. As many of you may know, the term ‘Fair Play’ is mainly used in sports to ensure that each participant has an equal chance of participating. We took these two words and expanded their meaning to cater for the sad reality that is the present situation which is today’s Guatemala. Many youths, who should be enjoying the better side of life are trapped in a vicious circle of violence and deadly habits with football being their only escape route towards a first chance in life.

We inspired ourselves from the great work which is currently being done in the many missions in Guatemala and decided to help. After brainstorming the idea, 15 of us decided to start a fund-raising journey which will ultimately lead to a month in Guatemala, assisting in the building of the much-needed roof in the ‘Guatemalta Arena’, to ensure that no natural weather condition would hinder the daily conglomeration of youths who choose football and character building over destruction.

We are an enthusiast group of volunteers who are always ready to help. We strive to promote a healthy lifestyle and celebrate all that is Gozitan, in this case the unrivalled levels of generosity we are world-renowned for.