The Italian Relief Corps of the Order of Malta (CISOM) is a branch of the Order of Malta specialized in civil protection and first aid. CISOM, since its inception in 1970, has carved out a medical-health vocation dedicated to the poor and suffering, and has implemented its logistic and operational capacities in the various areas of civil protection. The organization has provided aid in the most devastating disasters to hit the Italian territory. From the most powerful earthquakes of the '70s and' 80s, to the floods of the '90s and 2000, up to the disasters of our times, such as the earthquakes that have affected central Italy and subsequent flooding. At a local level, CISOM has also offered its support in the social welfare field with a particular focus on marginalized groups, such as the homeless and immigrants.

In 2007 this attention to both health and care aspects prompted CISOM to provide medical assistance to migrants crossing the Strait of Sicily, traveling with the Coast Guard and the Financial Guard. CISOM wants to guarantee health care to migrants who cross the Mediterranean in search of a better life. Just as it recognizes that providing those affected by natural disasters with adequate facilities, resources and training is of primary importance on a high risk territory such as Italy. Among the various projects a particularly noteworthy project is that of the Milan Group, which provides assistance and rehousing to homeless people.