BIS #2826 SALFAM OUTREACH PROGRAMME

Ashwin Fernandes

MATUNGA, FEBRUARY 22, 2012:  The Salesian Family (Cooperators and Past Pupils from Wadala, Matunga, Kurla, Nerul, Borivali, Bandra, Virar; and ADMA members) spent a day at Don Bosco Asha Kiran – Karjat, a project for marginalized youngsters. Three buses left from Matunga, Andheri, Borivali picking up a total of around hundred and thirty five enthusiastic members. Everyone marveled at the expanse of over sixty eight acres - a perfect blend of beauty, nature and ecology. The entire SALFAM group was warmly welcomed by Fr. Xavier, who stood at the entrance of Asha Kiran with open arms.
After a good breakfast, Fr. Xavier spent an hour with the group and gave them an idea of all that was happening at Asha Kiran. He spoke of the intake, and how the boys are recruited. He detailed the training imparted, that provides employment which enables them to earn a livelihood for themselves and their families. Truly, his words affirmed: "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime." It was incredible but true that Asha Kiran had changed the lives of around four hundred and fifty six families, without charging any of them a single rupee. He also spoke about eco-friendly methods and how we need to preserve and save mother earth, teaching us how to reduce, reuse and recycle.
At Asha Kiran, the SALFAM members then celebrated Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Wilfred D'Souza. We remembered our Late Fr. Aurelius Maschio (on his birth anniversary), the pioneer and visionary, born hundred and three years ago that very day. After Mass, we were treated to a sumptuous lunch that was delicious and plentiful. After lunch, there were a couple of games and quizzes that kept everyone on their toes.
Thereafter, Fr. Xavier took us through a guided tour of the technical set up and demonstrated how we could use all our waste by recycling them into manure or converting to bio-fuel. The tour as expressed by many was very informative and relaxing. After a refreshing tea session, Fr. Xavier called upon Fr. Wilfred to launch, some tempting and mouth watering variety of pickles, aptly, called "BOSCO PIC" indigenously prepared at Asha Kiran.
It was also the opportune moment to express well merited 'Thank You' to Fr. Xavier and others. It was certainly a day to remember and to cherish the occasion for knowing the Salesian Family in a better way.  












































BOSCO INFORMATION SERVICE (BIS) MUMBAI

Don Bosco Provincial House,
Matunga, Mumbai - 400 019. INDIA
Email: bis@donboscomumbai.org