Salesian facilities were not directly impacted

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are working to support people affected by the deluge of rains and subsequent flooding that has impacted parts of southeast Spain. More than 220 people have died, although the official figure is still increasing, and dozens are still missing due to the serious floods that have hit the region.

In Valencia, the Salesian facilities of San Antonio Abad Center, located in the northern part of the city, and San Juan Bosco, located in the southern part of the city, were not directly impacted.

Father Fernando Miranda, superior of the Province of Spain’s Mary Help of Christians Province based in Seville, said, “I have been in contact with the rectors of the Salesian centers in Valencia. Structurally, they have not suffered any damage. Both have mobilized volunteers to help loading and unloading trucks with aid. They were also involved in the solidarity that brought thousands of people to the affected areas to help. Salesians are also listening and providing support to families who have lost loved ones or their livelihood. Salesians have stressed the widespread sense of sadness, loss and pain that manifests itself in so many different ways.”

The Salesian centers in Valencia suspended classes to facilitate relief work. They have been in contact with the Caritas Emergency Committee in Valencia to coordinate the different responses according to needs. Rafael Gomar, delegate for communication at the San Juan Bosco Center, explained that they have been collecting food, filling vans and sending them to the affected areas.

The Federation of Youth Centers in the Valencian Community is managing the work of volunteers from Salesian centers, together with the Valencian Youth Council, to act in coordination with the affected municipal administrations.

There have been numerous expressions of solidarity from all over Spain including initiatives to collect of food, cleaning materials, bottled water, sleeping bags, personal hygiene products, pet food and other basic necessities. Initiatives such as the sale of sweets or fundraising during various events have also begun.

Fr. Miranda added, “In the midst of so much pain, the presence of so many people who rush to help in so many different ways shines. Many of these volunteers are young, even entire families who cannot remain impassive and get involved in what is happening. Hope continues to flourish, ever stronger, even in the midst of so much pain. God does not forget his people who suffer and cry.”

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Sources:

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

ANS – Spain – Salesian houses throughout the country help people affected by DANA

Salesian Missions – Spain

World Bank – Spain