CasaScalabrini 634

Casa Scalabrini 634 is a 2nd reception/camp which brings refugees from the 1st reception centers to help them prepare to go out into Italian society to live a full professional and personal autonomous life outside of a reception center.  This complex is downtown Rome.    We are touring the complex with the Director Emanuele and Francesca who is from MEDU and introduced us to this organization.  This is their chapel, and they are part of the Catholic church, but they respect all religions, even having a special room for the Muslims to worship.

One of the 'trades' that is taught is how to use a recording studio.    Dad was in his element.

This house is actually private apartments that CasaScalabrini subsidizes for those who can't afford the full rent.  It is on the same complex as the refugee house.

A sewing classroom.  Those who take this course have been hired out on the economy.   This 'classroom' is highly sought after for the goods they make b/c while they are being taught they sew theatrical costumes which are sold, so they actually turn a profit from this classroom.

One refugee was a sculpture in his home country.  Here are a few of his pieces of work about his experiences crossing the Mediterranean.  You probably can't tell, but all the pieces are still 'in process', meaning they were wet and still being worked on.  They were quite good and he was working towards having enough pieces to hold an exhibition.

This one is actually a trilogy of a sequence: almost to drown, thrown a life jacket, being saved.

Tour finished.  We just got our project approved here.   LDS Charities is going to help provide food, some kitchen furniture, and help with their transportation expenses.  Hooray!