Salesian missionaries distribute school kits to 437 youth

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with the Salesian Project North Zone in Quito, Ecuador, provided 437 youth with school kits at the beginning of September. The youth were from the Guambras Action Program and the Mi Caleta Support and Care Program.

During the distribution event, Father Naún Tapia, director of the Salesian Project North Zone, emphasized the importance of the school kits as a fundamental tool that will allow youth to continue their studies. The donation also helps Salesians further their mission of ensuring the right to education.

“Salesians want to ensure that youth are able to access their education and fully participate,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “We don’t want youth to come to school feeling unprepared by not having the necessary items to engage in their classroom work. Donations like this help Salesians ensure that youth are prepared, engaged and able to take full advantage of their education for a brighter future.”

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 Program, almost 26% of all children under age 5 have stunted growth, increasing to 31% in rural areas and 47% in Indigenous communities.

Salesians provide social development and educational programs across Ecuador to help poor youth 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.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Ecuador – Salesian Project Ecuador North Zone delivers 437 school kits for children and adolescents

Salesian Missions – Ecuador

UNICEF – Ecuador