austraLasia 820
Tuloy sa Don Bosco's lucky kids!
MANILA: 31st March '04 -- Recent statistics indicate as many as 200,000 street-children in the Philippines. Metro Manila has some 42 centres dedicated to reaching out to those who inhabit its streets. Widely recognised as one of the best of these is the Salesian work begun back in 1993 by Fr. Rocky Evangelista in Makati but now located nearby in Alabang, Muntinlupa City.
Tuloy sa Don Bosco, something like Don Bosco's own Oratory and school began humbly with a dozen kids but, thanks to Government and Charities and the dedication of Salesians and lay-helpers, is now firmly established on 5.4 hectares with 165 residential youngsters and 560 plus non-residential students attending the educational programme. The Centre networks with at least half of the other 41 Manila Centres.
Tuloy is a striking example of what can happen when there is close integration of Salesians and lay people within a common mission. The mission has been clear from the start - the mission and vision spelt out by Fr. Rocky back in 1993 to redeem street-children from helplessness and empower them to choose right, through a comprehensive programme of caring, healing and teaching. This is achieved through the fundamental Salesian strategy of loving-kindness, reason and religion as well as training to self-direction and responsibility.
Over the ten years of Tuloy sa Don Bosco's existence, some dozen Salesians have been directly part of its development, with opportunities for many others, especially younger confreres, to spend time with the children in holiday periods and at weekends. But a solid core of dedicated full-time lay volunteers, and many part-timers too, has been just as much a part of the story. The example they receive of happy Salesian life dedicated to Manila's poorest is arguably a key element in their continuing Salesian formation.
The children at this 'Don Bosco' are lucky kids, and not just while they are there. There is a follow-up programme too. On 25th April, Tuloy Sa Don Bosco celebrates 'First homecoming' for Alumni. it will be a happy occasion.
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