According to the organisation, South Africa's youth unemployment rate is over 55%, where 40% of adults in South Africa have no schooling or only primary schooling. The Salesian Institute Youth Projects has been creating opportunities for the youth at-risk for over 100 years in Cape Town.

The December holiday period is characterised by a spirit of giving. The Salesian Institute Youth Projects has appealled to the greater public to provide support for the learners of the Learn to Live School of Skills.

The organisation provides opportunities for youth at risk through the teaching of critical life skills, basic education and vocational skills training. It provides over 50 000 meals per year, school supplies and support to youth who need extra guidance and support.

Vocational training in various areas gives youth-at-risk, in and around Cape Town, an opportunity to rise above their circumstances and become part of the South African economy when they leave the facility.

"When we change their outlook, a foundation is created to change their lives. They are deserving of our full love and support and we do this work in honour of the great man Don Bosco whose philosophy was that human values and loving kindness will change the world," says the team at the Salesian Institute Youth Projects. "It's festive season; we're asking people to dig into their hearts and their pockets and donate to youth who are desperately in need of help."

"We need help to keep continuing to change lives of the youth of South Africa and to shape their lives into something more positive," says Fr Pat Naughton, CEO of the Salesian Institute Youth Projects.

"We know we can't stop crime, gangsterism or total unemployment, but we do want to offer an alternative. Sustained and specialised interventions with the support of the public is exactly what we will continue to do for our youth and their future potential," concludes Naughton. 

For more information or to donate, visit www.//salesianyouth.org. You can also follow the Salesian Institute Youth Projects on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram.