It is the second time that Fr Chaquisse has visited the Don Bosco Fambul community since he is a Regional Councilor for Africa-Madagascar. In Freetown, Fr Chaquisse was welcomed by the Salesians and the staff of the Don Bosco Fambul community. He visited the shelters where the children at risk are housed, listened to their stories of suffering and abuse and how Don Bosco Fambul helped them to overcome the traumas and to transform their lives for the better.
He also visited a new building, one that houses a therapy center for young people who have suffered severe trauma. The property is located in a quiet area called "The Peninsula." Here the children embark upon a path of rehabilitation, are in contact with nature and follow a specific therapy to overcome trauma.
During the morning mass, Fr. Chaquisse expressed his appreciation for the great work that Salesians and social workers play in support of these children at risk. During the visit, moreover, Fr Chaquisse met the lay members of Don Bosco Fambul, listening to some of their experiences and reminding them of the guidelines of the Salesian Congregation. He encouraged them to continue to collaborate with the Salesians, to proceed with and follow the work of Don Bosco in reaching the poorest and to make Sierra Leone a true missionary land.
Fr Chaquisse then visited the "Girl's Shelter Plus", home to girls once forced into prostitution, but who have now been rescued from the street and who are being helped to reunite with their families. Here, Fr Chaquisse received as a gift several items of handicrafts, prepared for him by the girls.
