Caritas Malta - San Blas Therapeutic Community

Caritas Malta was founded in 1968 and is a Catholic organization with a mission to care for individuals in times of difficulty. Using Catholic teaching, they walk with individuals in their journeys of recovery. Their Caritas Male Shelter is a male residential programme that offers a non-clinical, home-like environment to assist men in their 6 week detox process. It helps prepare them for their next step in treatment with Caritas Malta whether that is their evening programme or San Blas Rehabilitation Programme.

The San Blas Programme is located on the outskirts of Żebbuġ and is a comprehensive 6 month residential programme structured in 2 phases. For the first 5 months of the program, residents will participate in therapeutic sessions, immerse themselves in community living, develop leadership skills, and cultivate life skills. The last month of the program is called the “request phase.” Residents will gradually reintegrate into society for a few hours each week during this phase.

Caritas Malta also offers a prison inmate programme (PIP), which is located in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, and is tailored for inmates struggling with substance use. Individuals who participate in this programme are granted supervised prison leave.

For individuals needing a step down from residential care, Caritas Malta offers an evening programme, which combines individual and group therapy. It focuses on relapse prevention and life skills and covers topics such as codependency, gambling, self-esteem, and anger management. They also provide assistance with legal issues, health concerns, and employment support. In addition, they offer Gamblers Anonymous, GamAnon (for family members), and Alcoholics Anonymous groups. Individuals can receive aftercare support through Dar Charles Miceli. Through this location, they offer semi-residential services and individuals are welcome to stop by or call 24/7 for support. They also offer engaging activities to help promote a sense of community and belonging.