Center has 5 Salesian specialists and researchers.

NEW ROCHELLE, NY (March 31, 2025) The Salesian Center for Ongoing Formation America in Ecuador has a new generator thanks to funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. One of the challenges the center faced was a lack of electricity due to storms and other issues. Often power could be cut for up to six hours, causing a disruption in services.

The Salesian center has five Salesian specialists and researchers in Salesianity. The center has a complete bibliographic center in Salesianity and a building with the capacity to accommodate 25 trainees.

A Salesian explained, “We anticipate more storms in the coming years, similar to those impacting areas around the globe. We needed the generator for emergencies to ensure that we can continue operations. Electricity powers everything from the internet to our kitchen. We are grateful for the help in installing this generator in our center.”

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: media@salesianmissions.org