Fundraising by Marta Berlaffa

Hello everyone, my name is Marta and this year I decided to dedicate myself to community service at the Pope John XXIII Community in Santiago, Chile. The main project I am involved in is the Comedor, a soup kitchen that has become a piece of my heart.

The Comedor "Abuelo Oreste," located in Peñalolén (in the city of Santiago, Chile), provides hot meals and support to the neediest and most vulnerable people in the area. During the week, it offers breakfast and lunch to nearly 100 people, as well as providing clothesandpersonal hygiene products and the opportunity to take a shower to those in need. The hot meal is not only a way to nourish the body; it is also the means by which the Pope John XXIII Community can establish human contact with those in need. The Dining Hall is a place where people can spend time in a safe and welcoming environment, especially during the winter months when the lives of those living on the streets become even more difficult. Just outside the entrance to the Dining Hall, there is a phrase by Don Oreste, founder of the Community, that welcomes all who cross the threshold: "Don't worry too much about yourself and give yourself to others. Here I am": this is the heart of our commitment.

Currently, the dining hall is facing significant challenges due to damage to the roof and electrical system following heavy rains. Cracks in the roof are causing continuous flooding, jeopardizing our ability to help those who depend on our assistance. Urgent action is needed before the arrival of the winter season (which begins in June in Chile), when rains could make the situation even worse, putting the Comedor's forced closure at risk.

We are asking for your help to make the necessary repairs (4,000 euros) before it is too late. Every contribution is essential to ensure that the Comedor can continue to be a vital reference point for the most vulnerable people in our community.

Thank you for your support.