Don Bosco Foundation provides outreach in critical areas

(MissionNewswire) The Patio Don Bosco Punitaqui, a Salesian oratory run by the Don Bosco Foundation in La Florida, Chile, is working to transform the lives of youth in situations of great vulnerability. Patio Don Bosco is part of the foundation’s commitment to the community that includes programs for children living on the street, prevention of drug use and support for youth at risk of falling into delinquency or drug networks.

The space has recently been renovated to include multi-purpose rooms, a refectory, a library, study rooms, a courtyard, a covered patio and a prayer space. Open every day, the safe and welcoming environment is geared toward children and adolescents with recreational activities, and be a place where they can strengthen their values, self-esteem and dreams.

A Salesian noted, “More than a recreational space, the oratory is an instrument of social transformation. Faced with the problems of school drop-outs, substance abuse and the lack of safe spaces, this project reinforces the Salesian preventive approach while offering opportunities that keep youth out of dangerous situations.”

During 2024, more than 2,440 people benefited from the foundation’s initiatives, and more than 63% of the youth served remained engaged in supportive services. In addition, 366 youth have successfully completed their path through school reintegration, vocational training or the strengthening of family networks.

The Salesian explained, “The oratory provides outreach in critical neighborhoods where structural poverty, delinquency and drug trafficking have created environments of extreme risk for children and young people. Through direct work in these neighborhoods, Salesian teams identify risk situations early on and start providing support immediately.”

He added, “The aim of the oratory is to offer alternatives before the street, delinquency or drugs become the only option. It is not a matter of providing help at the right time, but of supporting youth in a process of transformation, strengthening the capacities and opportunities of each one so that they can have a productive future.”

Salesian missionaries provide education and social development programs for poor youth in Chile. Once finished with primary and secondary school, students can advance for higher education. Salesian technical schools cater to students who have dropped out of school and are seeking a second chance. In many programs, students complete their education while engaging in internships with local employers. This increases the students’ hands-on work experience and ability to gain livable wage employment after their studies are completed.

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Sources:

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

ANS – RMG – The social works that bring Don Bosco alive today: the Patio Don Bosco Punitaqui: a place of love, prevention and hope

Salesian Missions – Chile

World Bank – Chile