My name is Anthony Di Pietrantonio, and I am a Year 12 student and Mission Charter Leader at Salesian College Chadstone.
During the upcoming Term 2 holidays, I have been given the incredible opportunity to travel to Timor-Leste with the Cagliero Project, where I will work alongside the Salesians and visit Don Bosco schools, orphanages and communities.
This experience is much more than just a trip. It is a chance to support communities that face challenges many of us could never imagine.
Understanding Timor-Leste
Timor-Leste is one of the youngest nations in the world, gaining independence in 2002 after many years of conflict and hardship.
For over two decades, the people of Timor-Leste endured war, violence and occupation. During this period, it is estimated that more than 200,000 people died, almost 20% of the country’s population at the time. Families were torn apart, entire communities were destroyed, and many children grew up surrounded by fear and poverty. Schools, homes and important infrastructure were devastated, leaving generations of people to rebuild from almost nothing.
Even today, many families continue to live with the effects of this history.
In Timor-Leste, many families live on very limited incomes and education can be difficult to access. Some primary school students attend school for as little as $2 USD per month. Teachers often earn approximately $150 USD a month, despite supporting entire families. Many households rely on one income while raising four or more children.
The Role of the Salesians
The Salesians play a major role in supporting the people of Timor-Leste, operating more than 70 schools and orphanages across the country.
Education and support for young people are critical, especially considering that more than 70% of Timor-Leste’s population is under the age of 30. For many children and young people, Salesian schools provide not only education, but also safety, hope, food, guidance and a future.
While in Timor-Leste, we will spend time with students, assist in community programs and learn firsthand about the importance of education, faith and service. We are also bringing donations and support to help local communities and schools.
How You Can Help
As part of this project, we are collecting school supplies to take with us and distribute directly to students in Timor-Leste.
Donations such as:
- Pencils
- Pens
- Coloured pencils
- Crayons
- Rulers
- Erasers
- Exercise books
- Calculators
- Other educational materials
are greatly appreciated.
A donation box will be available at Reception. Every item donated will help provide students with resources that many of us use every day but are often difficult for families in Timor-Leste to afford.
If you would like to further support this cause, additional donations of any amount would be greatly appreciated. Even the smallest contribution can make a genuine difference in the lives of students and families who need it most. A small donation from our community here in Australia can go an incredibly long way in Timor-Leste.
Donation Link: https://www.givenow.com.au/cr/timor-leste
Thank You
I am extremely grateful for the support of the Salesian community and thank you for taking the time to read this message. Your generosity, kindness and support truly help bring hope and opportunity to others.
Anthony Di Pietrantonio
Mission Charter Leader
