Students from Bangalore city, sponsored through BREADS’ education support programme, gathered on 4 January 2026 at the Don Bosco Provincial House. A total of 140 sponsored students, from primary school to college, along with their parents, gathered to enjoy some time together. Organised by BREADS, the get together aimed to strengthen the bond among sponsored students and their families, with the Don Bosco community while encouraging children to value education, gratitude and mutual support.
Welcome activities helped the children feel comfortable and connected with one another. Interactive sessions and cultural performances by the children brought warmth and energy. College students led the Christmas carol singing, while younger students presented dance performances, highlighting their talents. Academic toppers from school, pre-university and degree levels were appreciated for their consistent effort and achievement. Gifts were also distributed to all, ensuring that every child felt included and valued.
The BREADS’ Education Support programme reaches out to 502 students across primary to professional studies, in both Karnataka and Kerala. In Bangalore alone, 188 children are supported by the programme. This support ensures that vulnerable children and their families, identified through a network of Don Bosco institutions, are supported financially to continue their education, preventing dropping out and contributing to the overall development of the family in the long term. A reflection by Fr. P. S. George, Executive Director of BREADS, encouraged students to remain committed to their studies and to recognise the value of the support they received in shaping their future. Sanjana, a 10th class student, gave her peers a Christmas message, inspired by Don Bosco’s cheerful, helpful attitude, and love for children. She said,” Let us study well, grow in life, help the poor and needy, and strive to make a positive difference—just like Don Bosco did.” This is also one of the envisaged outcomes of the Education Support programme—sensitised children and their families, who would contribute to society.
