Among the many initiatives, we can mention the support for the multifunctional space for the reception of internally displaced persons in Ukraine, a project carried out with the coordination of Salesian groups active in international solidarity (Opera Don Bosco Foundation onlus, Opera Don Bosco Lugano, Don Bosco Nel Mondo Foundation in Rome, Missioni Don Bosco Turin and VIS), which since the beginning of the conflict have joined forces to respond more effectively to the Ukraine emergency.
Despite the persistence of the conflict in this country, the Salesians continue to constantly support the population, focusing particularly on minors and women.
The Opera Don Bosco Onlus Foundation has provided support with a specific focus on Lviv, where the citadel of "Mariapolis", built a year ago, is currently hosting almost a thousand displaced people from the eastern areas of the country. Thanks to the generosity of donors, the necessary funds were collected and sent throughout the year to support the services of the Mariapolis camp for the benefit of refugees.
Facing the earthquake emergency in Syria, the Salesians of Aleppo and Damascus immediately provided hospitality, assistance and aid to the population affected by the catastrophic earthquake of 6 February. After the first relief interventions, thanks to the donors, and in collaboration with the"Opera Don Bosco nel mondo" Lugano, activities were launched to support reconstruction and psycho-social support, in particular for children and young people.
The Salesian Bakery in Bethlehem, a historic institution with over 130 years of history, plays a crucial role in the life of the local community. Founded in 1891, the bakery has always responded to the needs of the local population. In addition, it was a place for learning the baker's trade and a means of charitable assistance for the most needy people.
The oven replacement project promoted by the Opera Don Bosco Onlus Foundation was launched with the aim of improving the effectiveness and efficiency of bread production. The current oven, in fact, has been in service for more than 20 years, requires constant maintenance, is inefficient and does not meet occupational safety standards. Thanks to the generosity of the donors, € 30,000 was collected and sent for the new oven.
The Opera Don Bosco Onlus Foundation thus continues to move the hearts of many people through humanitarian projects in different parts of the world.
“Thanks to the generosity of those who support our mission, we have been able to address emergencies and promote social development in many communities in need. In the last period, our Foundation has responded with commitment to humanitarian emergencies in several regions, including Syria, Ukraine, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Democratic Republic of Congo, Venezuela. We have contributed to growth and education through educational, education and vocational training projects in Brazil, Burundi, Pakistan, Democratic Republic of Congo, India, Myanmar, Peru, Rwanda. In addition, we have promoted agricultural and food projects to contribute to the livelihood of many children and their families, in Brazil, Ethiopia, Ghana, Senegal, East Timor", says the President of the foundation, Michele Rigamonti.
“Our mission doesn't stop there. We continue to ‘move the heart’ of many people, encouraging them to make themselves present in a concrete way to those who need it most, especially children and young people, offering them opportunities for the future", concludes Rigamonti.
Numerous projects are already underway, while many support initiatives will be launched and carried out in the coming years.
These include the "Let's all go to school" project in Gambella in Ethiopia; the "Health and well-being for the most needy families in Tegucigalpa" initiative in Honduras; and the opportunity to remotely support an entire community of children and young people for a year in different areas of the world.
For more information, visit: www.operadonbosco.it
