As followers of St John Bosco we are committed to helping youth build a better future. Education and training is central to the true development of each individual to achieve their full potential.

Our Pacific neighbours in Samoa and Fiji seek assistance and support, we hope you can help.

In Samoa there are two schools:

• Don Bosco Technical Centre, Alafua – which caters for young men and women (aged 16-22), who have not been able to complete mainstream schooling, due to poverty, prior drop-outs or other serious family and social problems.
• Don Bosco Co-educational Colleges & Vocational Centre, Salelologa - offer co-educational placements to over 300 students, many of which live in remote villages and can only attend by catching the school bus.

Both schools require ongoing support to cover running costs, teacher’s salaries, maintenance and workshop materials.

In Fiji the Salesians have a House of Studies for students mainly from the Pacific who attend the local seminary and teachers’ college. For these Salesians the “outreach” to date has been focused on local primary schools, an orphanage and nearby villages. The Salesians have always been very active in their outreach with young people however have lacked a specific space to meet and gather.

Over the past few years, through the generosity of benefactors, the Salesians have built a large Multi-Purpose Community and Youth Centre. Fr Mikaele Leilua, Parish Priest, explains , “The multipurpose hall will draw youth off the street, offer them quality time with their friends in an environment where life skills, teamwork, games, sporting facilities and educational programs will keep them away from disruptive and unlawful behaviour. A positive environment helps to build confidence and assist in employment opportunities for a variety of pathways; volunteer work, vegetable growing projects or receive support and encouragement to pursue full or part time training. a youth and education centre.

There have been many challenges throughout the building process but at long last it is in the final stages of completion. The centre has already been utilised for some activities and gatherings, however, as soon as it is complete, it will open its doors more specifically for the youth. It has been noted that when families from the country relocate into Suva, usually only one member finds work, whilst the others are left idle.  Our aim is to draw these youthful members into a constructive and happy environment where they can make use of the facilities and programs on offer.”

CURRENT FIJI APPEAL "FURNISH FIJI"

Salesian Missions Australia is running a campaign for the second half of 2021 to send a container to help 'Furnish Fiji' so the Salesians are equipped to run the many programs they have planned.

We are hoping to raise funds (approx $12,000) for the shipping of a container. We are also sourcing the following items in new or excellent condition:

·        Plastic foldable tables, Plastic stackable chairs in large quantities, Sports equipment, Musical instruments, Projectors, Children's books Clothing and uniforms

The container will be located at one of our schools in Melbourne and we are hoping to fill it over the next 3 months so that it can be shipped to Fiji and arrive before the end of the year. 

We are your hands reaching out to the less fortunate… Can I count on your support today? I hope I can. Even the smallest gift makes a significant difference.