Below are his words:
"Today, we reach out to you with hearts full of gratitude and hope, amid the harsh reality we are facing. As the Salesian Family of Bahía Blanca, we stand with our people, sharing in their pain and suffering after a tragedy that has left deep scars. Yet, at the same time, we feel proud and grateful for the solidarity and commitment of so many young people from our Salesian houses, who have generously given their hearts and hands to respond to the most urgent needs.
In these days, we have been working in collaboration with the local administration as a ‘hotspot’, assisting citizens in their immediate needs. We are in contact with the local Public Healthcare Network, working to address cases of illness and infection, and we are also coordinating with Diocesan Caritas Network and the Hogar de Cristo (Federación Familia Grande Hogar de Cristo" - a network of community centers initiated by Catholic Priests, dedicated to providing comprehensive support to individuals facing social vulnerability, particularly those struggling with substance abuse).
On the very day of the flood, we began setting up food stations in different neighborhoods of the Don Bosco – La Piedad parish, and the response from our people, especially from the young Salesian volunteers, has been overwhelming. They were the first to reach out to those most in need, bringing not only a warm meal but also closeness and hope to the hardest-hit areas.
With deep humility, the community of Bahía Blanca recognizes the support provided by various Salesian works, where Directors and their councils have been actively serving those in need. We have a large group of volunteers sorting and distributing clothing, visiting families, helping to clean and disinfect homes, and assisting those suffering from post-traumatic stress.
We are deeply moved by the solidarity, support, and affection of the Salesian communities from our Province. Several Salesian houses have contributed financial aid, while others have sent trucks loaded with essential goods. Everything is being distributed systematically, ensuring that aid reaches even the most remote areas. Additionally, we are keeping detailed records to guarantee the transparency of the aid distribution process.
We grieve with the people of Bahía Blanca in their sorrow, but we remain steadfast in our faith and in our Salesian mission."
Fr. Guillermo “Willy” Tanos
Salesian Community of Emmaus
