ECUADOR: People impacted by recent environmental disasters receive aid
Humanitarian aid supports fishing livelihoods, home construction
ECUADOR
(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Foundation Project North Coast in Ecuador, through the Salesian Province of Ecuador’s “Together for Esmeraldas” campaign, has delivered artisanal fishing kits and building materials to the Esmeraldas communities affected by an oil spill and the recent earthquake. This humanitarian aid was thanks in part to the Salesian Mission Office in Ireland and the collaboration of Salesian centers in Ecuador.
The oil spill from the Trans-Ecuadorian Pipeline System on March 13 in Quinindé, Esmeraldas contaminated rivers, mangroves and beaches. Kits were delivered in June to several groups of fishermen on the shores of Santa Cruz and in the neighborhood of Santa Martha II. The kits included basic tools for artisanal fishing, such as nets, hooks, ropes, safety devices and other supplies. Also in June, six families affected by the strong earthquake on April 25 received building materials to rebuild their homes.
A Salesian said, “With a deep sense of solidarity and commitment to the most vulnerable communities in Esmeraldas, Salesians are working to ensure that families have the basic needs they live to survive. Homes are being rebuilt and livelihoods are being supported so fishermen can continue to support their families.”
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
