The population of Railaco and communities nearby experience high rates of illiteracy, often have large families to care for, have very high infant mortality rates and high rates of malnutrition, Many vulnerable families cannot afford to provide nutritious meals. This lack of adequate nutrition decreases immunity and contagious diseases spread more quickly in the community. Additionally, due to poverty and disadvantage, young people from the remote and marginalised communities find it hard to access schooling, particularly higher-level education, that can lift them out of the cycle of poverty.

The Diocesan Parish of Railaco is run by the Jesuits. The Parish operates three major initiatives to support the Railaco community: the Feeding program, a Mobile Medical Clinic and NOSSEF (or “Escola Secundaria Nossa Senhora de Fatima”) which is a senior high school for grades 10-12. These programmes are financially supported by Jesuit Mission. Complementing this work, our volunteers assist with all programs, particularly at the school.