ECUADOR: Youth find safety in relaunched recreation area
Madre del Salvador Center reopens with new roof, synthetic field and children’s playground
ECUADOR
(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Madre del Salvador Center, located in Esmeraldas, Ecuador, has reopened with a new roof, synthetic field and children’s playground. Youth are now able to enjoy the renovated spaces and use the center during their free time while far from the dangers that impact the city. The center was relaunched with an opening ceremony, after which youth were able to celebrate in the space they consider a second home.
The opening event was co-chaired by Father Marcelo Farfán, superior of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Province of Ecuador. Together with the youth, he visited the new spaces and then blessed the facilities. Javier Buitrón, governor of Esmeraldas, was also present. Buitrón praised the work and the programs offered by the Salesians for youth in the community.
The renovations were made possible thanks to funding raised during the 2023 Missionary Campaign, a yearly initiative that supports projects benefiting the most vulnerable groups served by Salesians in the different regions of the country.
During his visit to the region, Fr. Farfán also visited the Salesian Chicos de la Calle Costa Norte (North Coast Street Children) project. The organization offers education, nutrition and support to more than 1,100 youth in San Lorenzo, Santo Domingo and Esmeraldas.
Fr. Farfán said, “I am very happy for the dedication and commitment of the Salesians and the lay people in supporting youth in this organization. They are doing an admirable job in providing an opportunity for change and hope to these boys and girls who live in such difficult environments and situations. I know there is still a long way to go, but this project is sowing seeds of hope, and we must continue to dream like Don Bosco.”
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.
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.
###
Sources:
ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)
Salesian Missions – Ecuador
UNICEF – Ecuador
