Brazilian Salesian Network provides funding for nutritional projects at Salesian institutions across the country

(MissionNewswire) In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing concern of hunger in Brazil, the Brazilian Salesian Network has provided $462,374 (R$ 2.4 million reais) to support food assistance initiatives by Salesian institutions throughout the country. “Networking against Hunger” is the theme for the initiative.

The Brazilian Salesian Network is made up of the six Salesian provinces and four Daughters of Mary Help of Christians provinces in Brazil. Both groups collaborate on projects aimed at educational, welfare and pastoral support.

The economic difficulties of thousands of families and people who find themselves in conditions of social vulnerability due to unemployment were considered as a priority when launching this initiative. The project runsfrom May 21 to June 21.

To receive the funding, local Salesian institutions must present projects to the Brazilian Salesian Network for them to be analyzed and approved. Considering the urgency for immediate assistance for people and families in social vulnerability, projects that will be awarded funding will include the purchase of food items and/or the distribution of food in other ways.

“The pandemic has caused the loss of income and ability to provide for their families for many around the globe,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “As a result, many families have been pushed further into poverty and are facing hunger. This initiative and others like it are ensuring that families have their basic needs met during this challenging time.”

Just over 15 percent of Brazilians live in poverty, with the majority living in the rural northeast of the country, according to the World Bank. There are large gaps between the poor and the rich, and issues of income inequality and social exclusion remain at the root of poverty.

Inequalities also exist in access to education and educational efficiency. These inequalities are greatest for children and youth who are poor, live in rural areas or who have an incomplete compulsory education. Salesian missionaries working with poor youth and their families in Brazil develop programs and provide youth opportunities for furthering their education and skills.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Brazil – Brazil Salesian Network promotes “Networking against hunger” campaign

Salesian Missions – Brazil

World Bank – Brazil