Program offers wide variety of activities for different age groups

(MissionNewswire) The St. Francis de Sales Oratory, located in Cuenca, Ecuador, is providing educational and recreational activities for more than 400 youth aged 6-17. The program offers a wide variety of activities designed to meet the needs of different age groups.

These include sports with tournaments and team games that promote physical activity and collaboration; culture through creative workshops, artistic expression and educational sessions; and recreation with traditional games, team-building exercises and outdoor activities.

A Salesian explained, “Thanks to this holistic approach, the oratory is not limited to entertainment but also fosters personal growth, reinforcing values such as respect, coexistence and fraternity. The enthusiasm and participation of the youth confirm the importance of these educational spaces for the well-being of families and for the healthy and harmonious development of the younger generations.”

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)

ANS – Ecuador – Over 400 children and young people take part in the summer camp at the St Francis de Sales Oratory in Cuenca

Salesian Missions – Ecuador

UNICEF – Ecuador