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CV NEWS FEED // Over 1,600 students attending Don Bosco high schools in Ngozi and Buterere, Burundi, received crucial nutritional support in early 2024, thanks to a partnership between the US-based Salesian Missions and the humanitarian organization Rise Against Hunger.
One of the smallest countries in Africa, Burundi faces widespread poverty caused by over a decade of violent conflict. A September 16 report from MissionNewswire shared that according to UNICEF, more than half of children under 5 suffer from stunted growth due to poor nutrition and a lack of access to adequate health care.
As CatholicVote previously reported, The Salesians of Don Bosco is a global Catholic religious institute dedicated to the education and welfare of young people, especially those who are poor and at risk.
St. John Bosco founded the Salesians in 1859, driven by a lifelong mission to care for and educate abandoned children—a mission sparked by a dream he had at the age of 9 that called him to dedicate his life to their welfare.
MissionNewswire reported that the Salesians’ partnership with Rise Against Hunger, an international hunger relief non-profit organization, has provided 1,600 students with essential sustenance.
According to the report, meal assistance was received at Don Bosco Buterere, where nearly 700 students are enrolled. Students have since shown greater enthusiasm and participation in academics, sports, cultural activities, and vocational training.
One local Salesian noted, “We have witnessed the large number of youth attending organized programs with interest and commitment.”
“We are pleased to see the enthusiasm in the community for these activities and hope to encourage continued involvement from the children and their families,” he continued.
The Salesians shared with MissionNewswire that 13-year-old Gad Lamec Mbonyumugenzi, a student boarding at Don Bosco Buterere, is one of the children who has benefited from the meals. After experiencing an unstable home life, Gad now enjoys a sense of stability and belonging at the school, where he participates in daily activities and has three nutritious meals a day. Reflecting on his experience, Mbonyumugenzi told a Salesian, “I feel at home here.”
