(ANS – Port-au-Prince) – The Salesian work for young people with problems, in Haiti (Lakay), is a project that came into being in 1988 through the efforts of Salesian missionary Fr Attilio Stra and which currently is in 5 different places in Port-au-Prince and one, made of up two sectors, in Cap-Haïtien. On 8 March they celebrated 25 years.

Haiti is currently the poorest country in the Americas and one of the poorest in the world. Following in Don Bosco's footsteps and his commitment to neglected youth, the Salesians have spent 75 years or more helping young people who are poor, marginalised and forced to live in a state of neglect and serious risk.

In such a context a fundamental element of the Salesian presence in the country is Lakay, now in its 25th year of existence. To thank the Lord for achieving this anniversary,  Mass was celebrated at the La Saline centre with the Archbishop of Port-au-Prince, Guire Poular.

There was a cultural performance at the end of the celebration offered by young people from the Lakou, Atelye-Lakou and Lakay Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haitien centres. The performance was a spontaneous expression of their joy at the anniversary and they also thanked the Salesians for their effort in accompanying them towards an upright and dignified existence.

In its various centres and programs responding to the needs of young people at risk, the Lakay project provides education today to around 600 children with a staff each day of 57.

Published 21/03/2013