Full-time nurse provides healthcare services

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with the Don Bosco Girls Hostel, located in Nalgonda, a city in Telangana, India, received donor funding to provide 150 girls who are marginalized with nutritional support. The donor funding came from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.

Through the project, 150 girls residing in the hostel, many of whom are identified as being undernourished, were able to improve their nutrition. The girls have access to three meals a day. Additional nutritional support was provided for 50 severely undernourished girls. Based on assessments, these girls were identified and provided with additional nutritional supplements to help improve their health.

A full-time nurse has also been appointed to establish and manage the hostel infirmary. She provides regular healthcare services, including first aid, routine health monitoring, health counseling, hygiene support and health awareness sessions for the students, with particular attention to girls residing in the hostel. Regular health assessments are also being conducted to ensure timely identification and management of health concerns.

Salesians have also established a kitchen garden with the active participation of girls in the hostel. The initiative will promote nutrition education, encourage sustainable food practices and provide opportunities for practical learning.

Anjali, aged 12, is residing at the hostel and studying at Don Bosco School in Nalgonda. She said, “Many people are surprised to know that I come from a remote village because they see me as confident, healthy and cheerful. I sincerely thank Don Bosco for helping me grow into the person I am today. Like me, many girls from poor and marginalized families have found a second home here. We feel safe, loved and respected.”

She added, “One of the biggest changes in my life has been my health. We receive clean, nutritious, and balanced meals every day, which have made me stronger and healthier. Sometimes we also help in the kitchen by cutting vegetables and assisting with cooking. These experiences teach us valuable life skills that will help us in the future. I dream of becoming a successful and responsible woman who can inspire other girls from my community to continue their education and believe in themselves. I sincerely thank everyone who supports this program. Your kindness is changing our lives.”

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – India

World Bank – India