Activities at Salesian Madre del Salvador Center help reduce youth’s exposure to violence.

NEW ROCHELLE, NY (Oct. 15, 2024) Youth attending programs at the Salesian Madre del Salvador Center, in the Santa Marta neighborhood in the Parish of La Merced, Ecuador, have a new recreation and sports area thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Youth and their families in the area live in situations of vulnerability, poverty and danger from violence due to gangs and drug trafficking. Located on the Esmeraldas River, the area also suffers from flooding and high pollution.

Youth need a refuge and a place to feel safe, and the donation impacted the lives of 143 youth. Salesians were able to use donor funding to make the recreation area of the center more welcoming, secure, and accessible so youth have a proper environment to play sports and engage in recreational activities with their peers.

A Salesian missionary explained, “This project permitted the construction of a synthetic soccer field and additional recreational areas. The joy of the children and youth is evident. The new spaces have changed the environment, and youth feel a sense of belonging and dignity. This investment reinforces our commitment to providing a more dignified quality of life.”

In addition to recreational activities, Salesians offer educational supports that help youth with school attendance. Youth coming to the center attend public school, and about 60% of them do not have access to the internet or other technological tools. All of them are at risk due to violence encountered through drug cartels in the region.

The Salesian noted, “The activities carried out at the center reduce youth’s exposure to violence and crime. It is expected that through the promotion of recreation, sports and citizen training activities we will strengthen community networks and generate a positive impact on youth and families in the neighborhood.”

Salesians provide social development and educational programs across Ecuador to help poor youth gain an education and the skills for later employment. The skills they learn ensure they are able to care for themselves and their families while being contributing members of their communities.

Ecuador is one of the most inequitable societies in the world, according to UNICEF. The richest 20% of the population receives almost 50% of the national income, while the poorest 20% receives only 5%. According to the World Food Programme, almost 26% of all children under age 5 have stunted growth, increasing to 31% in rural areas and 47% in Indigenous communities.

###

Contact: [email protected]