The solidarity of the Italian people in support of the displaced helps to lighten the atmosphere of fear that has fallen over central Italy. Several Salesian Oratories have been generous in their contribution. In recent days they have collected material necessities (food, clothing, medicines, etc.) to be allocated to the people in tents. "The Salesian Cooperators of Piedimonte Matese took part in the collection of food organized by the local Civil Protection," says Cynthia, a Salesian cooperator from the place. "In particular we decided to send celiac products because there will certainly be some there who will need them."
The first offers of accommodation for the displaced persons are arriving. The Salesian community of Udine through its rector, Fr Igino Biffi, has promised to make a building available. There has also been an offer to examine possible ways of supporting the people affected by the earthquake from Fr Mauro Mantovani, Rector of the Salesian Pontifical University in Rome. Other offers have come from Fr Riccardo Pascolini of the Diocese of Perugia who is president of the Forum of Italian Oratories. We are in such a difficult time that every mode of intervention will be discussed in the days ahead, taking into account the directives of the Civil Protection and Caritas.
"We cannot remain unmoved by the fate of these men and women who have lost everything" insisted Fr Giovanni D'Andrea, president of Salesians in Social Work. "In contact with the National Civil Protection and Caritas we will follow the emergency developments, thinking especially of the future and of projects that will revive the earthquake zone. In particular, as a Salesian, I cannot but think of the young and their future."
