Goals are sustainability and providing training for youth

(MissionNewswire) Salesian Brother Alex Abelgas from Don Bosco Boys Home, located in Liloan, Cebu, Philippines, has started a garden using hydroponics technology. He created it in response to Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility.

Through vegetable production, Bro. Abelgas is promoting well-being for young people. He grew lettuce using a water-based nutrient solution rather than soil. Using money raised from his close friends, he constructed a new greenhouse, which is now one of the main attractions at Don Bosco Boys Home.

A Salesian noted, “Though still at the early stage of his project, Bro. Abelgas has already provided lettuce for the Salesian community. He partnered with the Department of Agriculture and hopes to attach the project as one of the programs that will be implemented by the Don Bosco Boys Home Training Center, headed by Father Ding. The goal is not only for sustainability but to provide training for youth and the nearby community.”

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Up Beat Response To Pope Francis’ – “Laudato Si”

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines