ECUADOR: Salesians distribute funding to 9 families to aid in employment
Project promotes sustainable opportunities that strengthen family economy
ECUADOR
(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Ecuador have made a commitment to sustainable development and the improvement of the quality of life of local communities as part of the “Protection of Rights, Food Sovereignty and Economic Empowerment for Women and Families in Vulnerable Situations” project.
An event was held with this focus and included a visit by Lina Varón, representative of the organization Jóvenes y Desarrollo (Youth & Development). During the event at the Don Bosco Farm in Ambato, a revolving fund was distributed to nine families to strengthen their employment activities. The families include people working in agriculture, tailoring, the production of sports and school shoes, handicrafts, and other family businesses. This support aims to consolidate sustainable economic initiatives that enable families to generate income and improve their living conditions.
A Salesian explained, “This project is funded by the Community of Madrid in collaboration with Jóvenes y Desarrollo. Its main objective is to promote sustainable opportunities that strengthen the family economy, reinforce food sovereignty and contribute to the empowerment of women in vulnerable situations.”
Salesians provide social development and educational programs across Ecuador to help youth who are poor gain an education and the skills for later employment. The skills they learn ensure they are able to care for themselves and their families while being contributing members of their communities.
Ecuador is one of the most inequitable societies in the world, according to UNICEF. The richest 20% of the population receives almost 50% of the national income, while the poorest 20% receives only 5%. According to the World Food Programme, almost 26% of all children under age 5 have stunted growth, increasing to 31% in rural areas and 47% in Indigenous communities.
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Sources:
ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)
Salesian Missions – Ecuador
UNICEF – Ecuador
