(ANS – Ciudad Juárez – September 22, 2026) – Salesian missionaries in Mexico implemented the “Accompanying I Go” project to support 100 young people at four Salesian youth centers, thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The project aimed to improve school attendance and academic achievement among young people, both during and after its implementation.

The young people selected for the project experienced educational delays identified by their schools. Many participants lacked academic support within their families.

Salesians provided guidance and support through recreational activities, group sessions, and dialogue. The project fostered an environment of trust, respect, and participation, allowing young people to express their emotions and develop the skills needed to build healthy relationships with their peers.

A Salesian representative explained, “Overall, the project had a positive impact on the development of academic, athletic, and cultural skills and, above all, on socio-emotional growth. It provided lessons that young people can apply to their daily lives, both at home and at school. The results highlight the importance of creating supportive environments that promote holistic development and social interaction based on respect and inclusion.”

The Salesian representative added, “We also observed greater group cohesion, which helped reinforce values such as empathy, solidarity, responsibility, and teamwork. Young people participated consistently and showed genuine interest in the activities. Furthermore, the bond between facilitators and participants grew stronger, creating a safe space where every young person felt heard, valued, and supported.”

Supporting Young People in Ciudad Juárez

Lorenzo Arturo Montelongo, a 10-year-old from Ciudad Juárez, was one of the project participants.

Ciudad Juárez is a border community whose population includes many domestic migrants from other Mexican states seeking employment opportunities, as well as foreign nationals who arrive in the city hoping to cross the border into the United States.

Young people in the community face challenges in accessing education. Because of their families’ work commitments, many spend time without adult supervision, placing their safety at risk. These concerns are heightened by the city’s levels of violence, the availability of substances, and organized crime groups that target young people for criminal activities because they attract less suspicion.

Montelongo described his experience in the project as positive. He expanded his circle of friends, strengthened his relationships with peers, and participated in activities that sparked his interest and motivation.

Mexico’s Progress in Reducing Poverty

Mexico has made significant progress in reducing poverty. According to the World Bank, more than 8.3 million people moved out of poverty between 2022 and 2024. This represents an almost 18% decline in the number of people living in poverty in a country that has long faced economic insecurity and unemployment.

According to a report from Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics and Geography, the number of people living in extreme poverty decreased by 23%, while moderate poverty declined by more than 16%. Despite this progress, approximately one in three Mexicans still lives in poverty.

Source: Mission Newswire