PAKISTAN: Salesian missionaries had donor funding to support boarding students thanks to Salesian Missions
160 students from disadvantaged families receive nutritious meals
(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries operating a hostel for youth, located in Lahore, Pakistan, had donor funding to help support boarding students. The funding is from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The funds covered food costs for 160 youth, 10 more than originally planned in the project. There was also a small surplus, which was used to buy sports equipment for the students.
The youth, aged 14-21, come from disadvantaged families. Sixty percent of them attend the Don Bosco Technical Center while others are in formal education at another Salesian school. Almost all come from large, single-income families. Some have lost one or both parents while others come from single-parent families.
A Salesian explained, “The main goal was to cover their nutrition, which is the biggest expense at the hostel. We worked closely with our cooks and kitchen staff and planned the meals based on their experience and the typical dishes the boys eat at home with their families. We bought groceries every week, making sure to choose suppliers with the best quality and prices. We also update the menu regularly to include fresh, seasonal products.”
While living at the hotel, the youth gain a sense of responsibility for their living environment. They clean rooms, care for the greenery, perform small maintenance tasks and help in the preparation of events.
One of those who benefited from the project is Hasroon Rustam, aged 17. He, along with his younger brother, have been with the Salesians for two years. After their mother died three years ago, their father abandoned the family. Their maternal aunt tries to look after her nephews, but she also has to care for her own children. By staying with the Salesians, Rustam has been able to develop his athletic skills, and he particularly enjoys volleyball. He has also learned to play the guitar.
Salesian institutions are open to youth of all faiths. The schools provide economic benefits, scholarships and accommodations for students from the families most in need so that education is not only accessible but also an incentive for parents to send their children to school.
Pakistan has one of the lowest literacy rates in South Asia at less than 50%. Although the country’s constitution acknowledges free and compulsory education between the ages of 5-16, the rule is often not followed in rural areas for those over age 13.
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Sources:
Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)
World Bank – Pakistan
