Italy - Earthquake in Central Italy. Salesians of the whole of Italy respond

30 August 2016

(ANS - Rome) - 292 have been confirmed dead, 10 are missing, over 370 injured, and 2900 are housed in tents. These are the tragic consequences of the 6.0 magnitude earthquake that struck at 3.36 a.m. on 24 August last and devastated central Italy, including Lazio, Umbria and the Marches. The towns of Amatrice, Accumoli, Arquata, Pescara del Tronto and surrounding villages were destroyed. The Salesians were not slow to speak up and offer their support. 

The solidarity of the Italian people in support of the displaced helps to lighten the atmosphere of fear that has fallen over central Italy. Several Salesian Oratories have been generous in their contribution. In recent days they have collected material necessities (food, clothing, medicines, etc.) to be allocated to the people in tents.  "The Salesian Cooperators of Piedimonte Matese took part in the collection of food organized by the local Civil Protection," says Cynthia, a Salesian cooperator from the place. "In particular we decided to send celiac products because there will certainly be some there who will need them."

The first offers of accommodation for the displaced persons are arriving.  The Salesian community of Udine through its rector, Fr Igino Biffi, has promised to make a building available.  There has also been an offer to examine possible ways of supporting the people affected by the earthquake from Fr Mauro Mantovani, Rector of the Salesian Pontifical University in Rome. Other offers have come from Fr Riccardo Pascolini of the Diocese of Perugia who is president of the Forum of Italian Oratories. We are in such a difficult time that every mode of intervention will be discussed in the days ahead, taking into account the directives of the Civil Protection and Caritas.

"We cannot remain unmoved by the fate of these men and women who have lost everything" insisted Fr Giovanni D'Andrea, president of Salesians in Social Work. "In contact with the National Civil Protection and Caritas we will follow the emergency developments, thinking especially of the future and of projects that will revive the earthquake zone. In particular, as a Salesian, I cannot but think of the young and their future."

InfoANS

ANS - “Agenzia iNfo Salesiana” is a on-line almost daily publication, the communication agency of the Salesian Congregation enrolled in the Press Register of the Tibunal of Rome as n 153/2007.

This site also uses third-party cookies to improve user experience and for statistical purposes. By scrolling through this page or by clicking on any of its elements, you consent to the use of cookies. To learn more or to opt out, click "Further Information".