(ANS – New Rochelle, New York – November 5, 2026) – Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, has launched its Annual Food Distribution Appeal, giving donors an opportunity to multiply the impact of their contributions by turning a $1 donation into $20 worth of essential nutrition.
Salesian Missions maintains partnerships with international humanitarian organizations such as Rise Against Hunger and Feed My Starving Children, which donate tons of nutritious food. Through the trusted presence of Salesian missionaries in more than 130 countries, life-saving meals reach people who need them most. Donor contributions help Salesian Missions transport food from shipping docks to Salesian program locations around the world.
In some regions, the severity of food insecurity is overwhelming. An estimated 645 million people are living with hunger, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The organization has also reported that approximately 2.1 billion people, or 25.8% of the global population, experienced moderate or severe food insecurity in 2025, lacking regular access to safe, sufficient, and nutritious food.
In 2025, Salesian Missions provided food aid to Benin, Burundi, Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Guatemala, Timor-Leste, Uganda, and Zambia. This assistance provided meals to students and served as an incentive for families to send their children to school. As a result of these feeding programs, students are thriving. Many have gained weight, experienced fewer illnesses, and become more focused on their studies.
“Salesian missionaries are perfectly positioned to effectively and efficiently distribute goods and supplies like food aid to the communities in which they serve,” said Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions. “Our donors remain an integral part in ensuring this aid reaches youth who depend on Salesian programs for food, water, shelter, and education.”
More than 30,000 Salesian missionaries are dedicated to caring for young people who are poor and disadvantaged through programs around the world. Salesian initiatives support youth through education—including academic, vocational, and agricultural programs—workforce development, emergency relief and humanitarian aid, infrastructure support, clean water initiatives, and nutritional and health services.
To learn more and make a donation, visit SalesianMissions.org/lp/food.