From 26 to 31 December, Zach Vella, a Maltese endurance athlete, is running 60km a day for 6 days, as part of the challenge “6×60”. His new platform Home Bound, is hosting this event to raise money through donations for YMCA Malta and their 2 projects in support of people experiencing homelessness.
Demand for YMCA Malta’s services has soared in 2025: all facilities are operating at full capacity, along with receiving over 300 new shelter referrals throughout the year. Home Bound addresses Malta’s homelessness issue by creating endurance challenges that raise funds and awareness for organizations aiding the situation.
Beyond raising funds, Home Bound connects YMCA, donors, and contractors, ensuring monitored project completion.
Funds raising during the 6×60 challenge will be used to complete various necessities:
- A new semi-independent living apartment. This will be a safe space that could house 6 people while they work on gaining more independence.
- Expanding YMCA Malta’s Ħamrun drop-in centre. There will be an increase in essential space for counselling and day-to-day support.
“These two projects urgently need support,” Zach Vella asserts, “This is a chance to make a real difference this Christmas. Even a few kilometres or a small donation can support the incredible work YMCA carries out every day.”
A challenge for anyone
This challenge is designed for beginner and advanced runners to take part. Running will be steady and well paced, so no one should feel like they aren’t experienced enough to participate. People are invited to join for as long as they want, whether it’s the whole run or a few kilometres.
The running routes will be different across the days, including both roads and trail runs. Information including estimated times and route maps will be shared on Home Bound’s social media, so that runners can join during any part.
Everyone is invited and encouraged to join in on the challenge! Sharing the initiative and contributing through donations is also a great way to help the important work that YMCA Malta focus on.
