In the densely populated, conflict-ridden area of Santa Ana, far too many young girls and boys live with little hope for the future. Economic and social insecurity, as well as a lack of human rights protection, leave them vulnerable to a cycle of violence that often becomes impossible to escape. In fact, according to UNICEF, El Salvador suffers the highest child and adolescent murder rate in the world. Gang violence is a leading cause of violence in the country and it’s estimated that some 60,000-young people have gang affiliation. Gang involvement often offers a sense of belonging and family that counters the lack of education and employment opportunities offered in the country. Youth in the country are confronted not only with poverty but with instability, high levels of violence and inadequate access to educational opportunities. The need for practical education is more important than ever with 12 percent of youth ages 15 to 24 unemployed and 41 percent underemployed.

Salesian missionaries are empowering the youth of El Salvador to create their own opportunities for success now and later in life.  Colegio Salesiano San José de Santa Ana has more than one hundred years of educating youth to form good Christians and honored citizens. This project funds scholarships for students to continue their education.