Students in Salesian schools thriving as a result of feeding programs.

NEW ROCHELLE, NY (Nov. 1, 2024) Top of Form Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, has launched its Annual Food Distribution Appeal, enabling donors to multiply their gift many times over by turning a $1 donation into $20 of critical nutrition.

Through ongoing partnerships with international humanitarian aid organizations like Rise Against Hunger and Feed My Starving Children that donate tons of nutritious food, and the established, trusted presence of Salesian missionaries in more than 130 countries, life-saving meals are ready for those who need them most. Donor funding helps Salesian Missions transport the meals from shipping docks to Salesian program locations around the globe.

Up to 783 million people face hunger due to conflict, repeated weather shocks and economic downturns, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FOA). Further, the organization has noted that more than 2.8 billion people are unable to afford a healthy diet.

FOA has indicated, “Unhealthy diets are the leading cause of all forms of malnutrition — undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies and obesity, which now exist in most countries, cutting across socio-economic classes. Yet today, too many people suffer from hunger and are unable to afford healthy diets. More vulnerable people are often forced to rely on staple foods or less expensive foods that can be unhealthy, while others suffer from the unavailability of fresh or varied foods, lack the information they need to choose a healthy diet, or simply opt for convenience.”

In 2023, Salesian Missions sent food aid to Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, and Uganda. This food aid provided meals to students and served as an incentive for families to send their children to school. As a result of the feeding programs, students are thriving. Many have gained weight, suffer fewer illnesses and have become more focused on their studies.

“Salesian missionaries live and work in the communities in which they serve and know the landscape. Because of this, they are perfectly positioned to effectively and efficiently distribute goods and supplies like food aid,” said Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions. “Our donors remain an integral part in ensuring this aid reaches youth who depend on Salesian programs for food, water, shelter and education.”

More than 30,000 Salesian missionaries are dedicated to caring for youth who are poor and disadvantaged by providing programs around the globe. Salesian programs assist youth through education (academic, trade and agriculture), and workforce development initiatives, emergency relief and humanitarian aid, infrastructure support, clean water initiatives, and nutritional and health services.

To learn more and make a donation, visit SalesianMissions.org/lp/food.

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