by BIS Correspondent
MUMBAI, JUL 23, 2016: With the aim of transforming street boys to exemplary citizens, Don Bosco Shelter, Wadala provided them with, 'Vocational Guidance' at their Monthly Mela on July 20.
The Shelter outreach staff that share a good rapport with the boys on the street invited them to come for Mela, to which 74 boys responded.
The Mela started with a prayer service followed by an input session on various courses available at Don Bosco Karjat. Street boys were motivated and counselled to leave their past behind and start a new life at the various Salesian vocational training centres.
Father Gregory Almeida, Rector of Shelter Don Bosco, encouraged the boys saying, "Shelter Don Bosco is a tree which is happy to extend its branches to carry the burden of all those who are tired and weary on the street and to refresh, rejuvenate and restart a dignified life."
Health and hygiene services like haircuts, nail cutting, dressing wounds, bathing and distribution of clean clothes, were provided to the boys. They were then given a glimpse of their potential through a drawing competition and dance session, which they thoroughly enjoyed.
The Salesian Cooperators - Catholic lay people living in the spirit of Bosco - helped with their hospitality, cooking and serving the boys. A movie was then screened for their entertainment.
The Mela ended with the Vote of Thanks by Father Jesu Robinson. He motivated the youngsters to pursue a career and become upright citizens of the country.