Salesian Polytechnic University’s pastoral department serves as donation collection center

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries continue to provide aid for families impacted by the oil spill from the Trans-Ecuadorian Pipeline System on March 13 in Quinindé, Esmeraldas, Ecuador. The spill caused an environmental and humanitarian crisis in the region. It contaminated rivers, mangroves, and beaches, as well as severely impacted marine flora and fauna. In response, Salesians quickly mobilized to provide aid.

The Salesian Polytechnic University’s pastoral department at the Girón campus served as the donation collection center for the #UnitedforEsmeraldas campaign that was launched. According to Liliana Rivas, a collaborator with the Technical Directorate of Pastoral Ministry, the response from Salesian institutions was overwhelmingly positive.

Teachers, administrators, and university students mobilized to support those most impacted, preparing emergency kits and donating bottled water, non-perishable food, hygiene items and medicines. Two trucks carrying 430 food kits, 2,000 bottles of water, hygiene products, and medications arrived on April 8 and 9 at the Salesian community of San Felipe Neri in the Santa Marta neighborhood of Esmeraldas. Fifty university student volunteers supported the campaign by receiving donations, sorting supplies, and assembling the kits.

The initiative was led by Father Marcelo Farfán, provincial of the Salesians in Ecuador, and coordinated by the Provincial Planning and Development Office. Additionally, funds were raised to provide ongoing support for affected families.

A Salesian noted, “The #UnitedforEsmeraldas campaign demonstrated the Salesian community’s capacity to respond to social crises with generosity and commitment. The impact on local communities has been catastrophic. Many families lost their primary sources of income due to water contamination, mass fish deaths, and an initial fishing ban. Both children and adults are now exposed to serious health risks from contact with oil and inhalation of toxic fumes. It was important for our Salesian communities to do whatever they could to help mitigate the impact for those affected.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Ecuador – 430 Food and Medical Supply Kits Delivered to Esmeraldas Thanks to Salesian Solidarity

Salesian Missions – Ecuador

UNICEF – Ecuador