Teacher says nourishment is key to learning, development

(MissionNewswire) Nearly 200 youth attending programs at Lakay Don Bosco Cap-Haïtien in Haiti received nutritious food through a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Rise Against Hunger, a nonprofit that helps underserved people worldwide achieve food security and resilience. The shipments of meals were distributed in the first half of 2025.

The Salesians operate on the outskirts of Cap-Haïtien, serving a community primarily composed of internal migrants. Traditionally, most of the population has migrated from rural areas, seeking economic opportunities but often encountering poverty and exclusion. More recently, the city of Cap-Haïtien has become overwhelmed by an influx of people from Port-au-Prince, who are fleeing the insecurity caused by armed gangs.

A Salesian said, “Rise Against Hunger meals contribute to the education of our youth and their success. Thanks to the nutritious meals, our young people don’t have to worry so much about food to be able to study. The meals contribute to the development of our young people since they contain protein and vitamins.”

Belot, age 16, is one of the youth who received the meals. He lives in a community operated by the Salesians with the Vincent Foundation. After losing his parents and living on the street, Belot now lives at the Lakay Don Bosco residence where he attends school, completes work duties and participates in group activities.

Prior to joining the Salesian program, Belot was severely malnourished. With the nutritious meals, he has now reached a healthy weight and grown physically stronger. After eating, he often plays soccer or creates new games with his peers. He hopes that through education, he can learn new skills to help him secure a well-paying job and create a better life for himself.

Lourdena Bien-Amie Pierre, teacher and food manager, said, “Since receiving the Rise Against Hunger meals, noticeable improvements have occurred in Belot’s life. He has grown stronger and healthier. The meals have helped him focus better on his studies, improving both his physical and intellectual development. I have great pride in Belot. I always call him hopeful, responsible and determined.”

Pierre added, “Overall, since the introduction of the meals in the community, I have observed significant positive changes. Youth are growing both physically and mentally, and the community is benefiting overall. As I say, ‘a hungry stomach has no ears,’ meaning that nourishment is key to learning and development.”

Salesian missionaries began working in Haiti in 1935 in response to the Haitian government’s request for a professional school. Since then, Salesian missionaries have expanded their work to include 11 main educational centers and more than 200 schools across the country.

The 11 main centers each include several primary and secondary schools, vocational training centers, and other programs for youth in need. Salesian programs are located throughout Haiti, including in the cities of Port-au-Prince, Fort-Liberté, Cap-Haïtien, Les Cayes and Gressier. Today, Salesian missionaries in Haiti provide the largest source of education outside of the Haitian government.

###

Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Rise Against Hunger

Salesian Missions – Haiti

World Food Programme – Haiti