The foundation, part of the Pontifical Council “Cor Unum,” will consider about $2 million in projects.
Since its establishment by Pope John Paul II in 1992, the foundation has allocated $19 million in aid to more than 2,000 projects, the Holy See reported in a statement today.
It is anticipated that allocations this year will be for education (60%), agriculture (20%) and the development of micro-enterprises (20%).
The priority of education in development is the most important element of the Church’s commitment in Latin America, said a “Cor Unum” statement.
“Populorum Progressio” is financed mainly by the Italian bishops’ conference, although private donors from other countries also participate.
The administrative council includes prelates from countries with the largest indigenous, mixed, and Afro-American communities who decide how to use the funds.
