(ANS - Kathmandu) - "This afternoon our rescue team went to neighbouring villages to distribute food and plastic sheeting to make tents. It is sad to see people leave because they are without food and shelter." This is what Fr George Menamparampil, Director of Bosconet, shared on Tuesday evening in the Salesian Mission Office in New Delhi. He is very committed to supporting the efforts of the Salesians among the earthquake victims in Nepal.

Yesterday, Wednesday 29 April, the rescue team from Nepal Don Bosco, coordinated by Fr Jijo John, arrived in the District of Sindhupalchok where 1,176 deaths have been recorded. Even in that area, Salesians, past pupils and volunteers distributed different aid items such as food and canvas for tents. The Salesian team is trying to help as many people as possible, but they are not always able to do what they would like, as specific permission from the authorities is required to provide relief.

The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians are working in Kathmandu. They are also forced to live outdoors, along with children and young people, under makeshift tents. In recent days the community has begun to collaborate with the local Caritas in bringing aid and relief to those most in need.

Copious supplies are arriving from all over the Salesian world. Many agencies and organizations are organizing specific campaigns on behalf of Nepal, such as, among many others, the Mission Office in New Rochelle, the Don Bosco nel Mondo Foundation, the VIA Don Bosco NGO and Jóvenes y Desarrollo. Significant donations are beginning to arrive. The Salesians of Korea donated 25,000 dollars and another donation is expected from the Salesians of Hong Kong. Also, the Mission Office of Bosconet, through its benefactors in Europe - the "Fidel Goetz Foundation" and private individuals - has already committed other 26,500 euro to relief for Nepal.

Prayers are needed too. "We also need to pray for our Salesians there. They need to be in good health, with a lot of physical and mental stamina,” says Fr Menamparampil. “I think these days they do not have much time for formal prayers, we will do it for them!"

Published 30/04/2015