The message highlights the importance of the support received by the victims, especially in the first weeks after the flood, when many people were in extremely vulnerable situations.
In its letter of thanks, the Santa Rosa Shelter recalled the positive impact of the volunteers' presence, not only in alleviating physical needs, but also in caring for the emotional well-being of those affected. The Mission team stood out for their dedication, humanity and commitment to helping those most in need.
‘We received not only essential medical care, but also warmth, affection and attention. What seemed like an endless tragedy was softened by the presence of each one of you, who made all the difference in our recovery. We are deeply grateful for all the help and support that we will never forget,’ reads an excerpt from the message signed by those responsible for the Santa Rosa Shelter.
SOLIDARITY
The mission took place between 17 and 31 May 2024 and mobilised academics and health professionals from UniSALESIANO, with the aim of providing assistance to the victims of the floods that affected the city of Porto Alegre and its metropolitan area. During the days of the operation, volunteers provided more than a thousand medical consultations, distributed essential medicines and offered psychological support to those suffering from the impact of the tragedy.
The action was coordinated by Dr Ângelo Jacomossi, a professor at UniSALESIANO, who highlighted the unique nature of the mission's work: meeting the needs of the community and acting quickly to provide relief. In addition to medical work, volunteers were also involved in organising shelters, helping with food, cleaning and maintaining minimum hygiene conditions.
Along with the support provided, the mission also had a strong impact on relations between academics, teachers and the local community. The Rector of UniSALESIANO, Fr. Paulo Fernando Vendrame, SDB, emphasised the importance of initiatives such as this in strengthening the university's social commitment. ‘This mission reflects the true spirit of our institution: to educate responsible citizens, prepared to transform people's lives with empathy and solidarity,’ he said.
For the Vice-Rector for Teaching, Research and Postgraduate Studies at UniSALESIANO, Prof. André Ornellas, after a year the message from the Santa Rosa Shelter comes as a symbol of hope and the strength that solidarity can provide in times of adversity. ‘UniSALESIANO reaffirms its commitment to the humanised education of its students, who, in addition to their academic training, are also prepared to play an active and transformative role in society,’ he concluded.
If you would like to know more about the actions carried out in the UniSALESIANO Humanitarian Mission: ‘Health Doesn't Wait!’, check it out here
