Salesian facilities across country providing shelter, food

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have responded after Cyclone Ditwah tore through Sri Lanka, and the country now grapples with one of the most severe humanitarian crises in its recent history. Entire communities have been uprooted, essential infrastructure crippled, and thousands of families left without homes. Salesians sprung to action, offering relief, protection, food and hope to those who have lost everything.

National disaster authorities report that there are more than 600 confirmed deaths and more than 330 people still missing. Nearly 1.5 million residents — including more than 275,000 children — have been affected. Over 233,000 people are currently staying in 1,441 temporary shelters, while thousands more are living with relatives after their homes were destroyed or severely damaged. More than 565 houses lie in ruins, and over 20,000 are partially damaged. Vast regions remain inaccessible due to collapsed roads, broken bridges and disrupted water systems.

Salesian parishes, schools, boarding houses, and community centers across the country have opened their doors, providing emergency shelter, food, clean water, clothing, and hygiene kits. Youth groups, parish volunteers and international partners have joined the mobilization, ensuring that aid reaches even remote communities.

Particular care is being given to youth, the elderly and those suffering trauma — groups most vulnerable in the aftermath of disaster. Salesian teams are offering psychosocial and pastoral support, helping families cope with loss, fear, and uncertainty.

Father Roshan Miranda, superior of the vice province, expressed concern and resolve as the crisis deepens. He said, “Our people are going through unimaginable suffering, and we must respond with the heart of Don Bosco. I want every Salesian house to be open as a place where families can find shelter, where children and young people are protected, and where no one feels abandoned. This is our mission, especially in times like these.”

One Salesian cooperator summed up the spirit of the response: “We cannot solve everything, but we can be a place of hope.”

Sri Lankans are affected by a significant lack of infrastructure including roads, electricity, irrigation systems and communication channels. In several areas of the country, seven out of 10 people have no access to electricity and almost half of the population does not have access to safe drinking water. Malnutrition among children is also common.

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Sources:

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

ANS – Sri Lanka – Devastation from Cyclone Ditwah Met with Rapid Salesian Response

Salesian Missions – Sri Lanka

World Bank – Sri Lanka