Activities take place across the country at Christmas

(MissionNewswire) Salesians in Spain carried out initiatives to support people most in need during the Christmas season with thousands of people in Salesian houses participating. Salesian houses organized food drives, such as Operation Kilo, Bote-kilo, Operation Potito and Chupete, to collect food and health products for children. Parishes also mobilized to promote their food banks.

Operation Kilo is one of the most deeply rooted food donations initiatives in Spain and involves the Salesian Family and Youth Ministry. The initiative takes place simultaneously in locations throughout the country, uniting them in one effort to support those in need.

The food and hygiene products collected were sent to institutions such as food banks, various social projects and ecclesiastical bodies that directly provide items to family in need. In addition, donations collected from the solidarity mailbox, set up to collect cash donations, were provided to the victims of the flooding in Valencia.

In several locations, Salesians hosted “Sowers of Stars” activities that collect food and toys. Youth from schools and youth centers collected and brought items to families. Students in many areas were directly involved in these campaigns. In Granada, students prepared Christmas baskets to be donated to families, and in Ourense, the Salesian youth center collaborated with the Diocesan Caritas to give money, food and games.

Volunteers from many other Salesian houses stood in front of pharmacies and supermarkets, encouraging participation and donations. The Salesians in Barakaldo had the special project of setting up an exhibition of nativity scenes from all over the world to help a local child’s family pay for therapy to treat his lissencephaly, a rare brain disorder.

Finally, the Pinardi Federation carried out a Christmas lottery and a campaign to collect gifts for boys and girls who participate in its programs. A representative said, “We thank all those who bought the Christmas lottery this year. The funds raised benefited Casa Garelli, the reception project of our organization that provides a home for children and adolescents in vulnerable situations. Casa Garelli also supports young refugees and applicants for international protection.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Spain – Salesian solidarity at Christmas time

Salesian Missions – Spain