Papaya partners with Malta Society for the Protection and Care of Animals

Papaya is proud to announce a strategic partnership with the Malta Society for the Protection and Care of Animals (MSPCA), marking a substantial commitment to advancing animal welfare across the Maltese Islands. This collaboration underscores Papaya's dedication to corporate social responsibility and the betterment of the community.

Established in 1900, the MSPCA stands as Malta's oldest and most influential animal welfare organisation. With over 120 years of unwavering service, the MSPCA has been at the forefront of advocating for animal rights, providing shelter, rehabilitation, and rehoming services for countless animals in need. Their mission encompasses rescue operations, educational initiatives, and community outreach programs aimed at fostering a compassionate society. 

Through this partnership, Papaya will sponsor several key MSPCA initiatives in 2025, including renovation of the shelter and various educational programs targeting children at schools and potential adopters. 

One of the critical issues in Malta is the rapid growth of stray animal populations due to the island's warm climate, which provides ideal conditions for uncontrolled breeding. The lack of population control results not only in poor living conditions for the animals but also poses risks to public safety. The situation worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic when many people adopted pets during lockdowns, only to abandon them once restrictions were lifted. Unprepared and untrained, these animals found themselves on the streets, increasing the strain on shelters and rescue organizations like the MSPCA.

Educating the public on ethical treatment and responsible pet ownership from an early age is essential. This is why the MSPCA’s educational program is designed to engage children in a meaningful way. Professional actors deliver interactive lessons in 12 schools, making the subject both accessible and engaging for young audiences. By instilling empathy and responsibility in children, the program helps shape a future generation that respects and cares for animals.

Equally important is the preparation of adopters, ensuring that pet adoptions are successful and long-term. Many people approach pet adoption with unrealistic expectations, unaware of the responsibilities involved. The MSPCA’s adoption support program guides potential pet owners through every stage—from the moment they decide to adopt, through the introduction to their new pet, and even post-adoption support. Helping adopters understand the challenges of pet ownership and ensuring they are fully prepared reduces the likelihood of pets being returned to shelters or abandoned. The goal is to match animals with committed families who are ready for the lifelong responsibility of caring for a pet.

Barbara Cassar Torreggiani, President of the MSPCA, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership. "This collaboration with Papaya Ltd is a monumental step forward for the MSPCA. Their support enables us to enhance our facilities, expand our educational outreach, and improve our adoption processes. Together, we are making a lasting impact on animal welfare in Malta," she said. 

Igor Tsybolyuk, CEO of Papaya Ltd, also shared his perspective: "At Papaya Ltd, we believe in giving back to the community and supporting causes that resonate with our values. Partnering with the MSPCA allows us to contribute meaningfully to animal welfare, education, and community engagement. We are honoured to support their mission and look forward to the positive changes this partnership will bring."

About Papaya Ltd.:

Papaya Ltd. is a financial institution registered and headquartered in Malta. As an Electronic Money Institution (EMI) regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA), Papaya Ltd. provides digital banking services including Mastercard payment cards and IBAN accounts for individuals and businesses, a PSD2 compliant solution enabling SEPA transfers, and offers co-branded and white-label mobile and online banking. The company also delivers PSD2 compliant API for fintech solutions as AISP and PISP, automated digital Know Your Customer (KYC) solutions, and personal and business International Bank Account Numbers (IBANs).

Blackcatcard, powered by Papaya Ltd., is a leading project that merges traditional financial services with advanced digital banking features.

About Malta Society for the Protection and Care of Animals:

The MSPCA – Society for the Protection and Care of Animals – is an associated member of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA). Its mission is to promote kindness and prevent cruelty to animals, through education, advocacy and other activities.

The MSPCA runs the oldest and largest home for dogs and cats in Floriana and is officially recognised by the Maltese Government as the national animal welfare organisation. The SPCA takes in stray and abandoned cats and dogs, rehabilitates them where necessary and re-homes them into loving homes.

The MSPCA is committed to long term educational programmes designed to raise awareness of the appalling consequences of ignorance and indifference. It promotes a positive attitude to rehabilitation and re-homing and seeks to foster a new, caring community, intolerant of cruelty to animals in all its forms.

To build a new purpose built MSPCA Homing Centre to cater for the hundreds of stray and abandoned dogs and cats on the island.