Fr. Mesidor should have taken part in the encounter of the Superiors of Interamerica Region, but he was faced with the emergency of helping his fellow-nationals. In his capacity as Superior, he visited the Salesian houses after hurricane Matthew. “I saw a worrisome situation for many people who lost their dear ones, their homes, their farms… All this causes serious problems to the economy of the country and in particular to their family economy.”
“As Salesians we are helping all people in need. The first phase consists in the distribution of food and water kits, but this phase should not last long. The second phase is the creation of a canteen to provide warms meals for all, but especially for the children and young people of whom we take care from Monday to Sunday, since the needs are great. A third step will be to provide working tools to people, so that they may begin to till their land, because the area is mainly agricultural, and those who do not till their land cannot eat”.
The most important phase Fr. Mesidor refers to is the distribution of construction materials and “the offer of a professional formation, providing scholarships, organizing short-term courses and offering a job”, because education provides the tools to come out of poverty. “Obviously we cannot do this on our own, we need the solidarity of all!”
In this context, we can remember Don Bosco and his mandate: “Do you want to do something good? Educate the youth. Do you want to do something divine? Educate the youth”. This is truly one of the most divine things that can be achieved in Haiti, with the support of all.
