In July 2016, the Diocese of Milan launched the 'Let's Give Work Fund,' an initiative born to address the consequences of the global economic crises of 2008 and 2012. Over ten years, this project has shown how the Church can be a concrete reference point for those seeking employment, offering not only financial support but a true path of accompaniment toward job placement. Managed by Caritas Ambrosiana through the Siloe service and the San Carlo Foundation, the fund has moved beyond emergency assistance to focus on empowering vulnerable and unemployed individuals.
As the Gospel reminds us, work is part of God's plan for humanity: Jesus himself was called 'the carpenter's son' (Matthew 13:55). The Church, following his example, strives to create opportunities so that every person can express their talents and contribute to the common good. In this context, the Let's Give Work Fund represents a concrete response to the Gospel call to care for the weakest.
Numbers That Speak of Hope
From January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2025, the fund listened to and guided over 4,500 job seekers, starting 1,932 in internships. Of the completed programs, 829 interns (45.08%) found stable employment. Of these, 722 were hired by the same companies where they interned, while 107 obtained a contract directly before the end of the training period. These data show the effectiveness of a method that combines training, social accompaniment, and attention to individual vulnerabilities.
More than 2,200 companies have been involved, with the collaboration of 18 trade associations. The fund operates in synergy with diocesan services and Caritas listening centers, creating a support network that goes beyond simple job placement. As Archbishop Mario Delpini emphasized during the Diocesan Vigil for Work, 'There are problems and there are people: the Let's Give Work Fund cares for people, one by one, and considers their integration into work a victory and a reason for gratitude.'
Work as a Path to Redemption and Community
Work is not only a source of income but a fundamental element for human dignity and the building of a just society. The Bible reminds us that 'The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it' (Genesis 2:15), indicating work as part of the divine plan. In an era marked by individualism and precariousness, initiatives like the Let's Give Work Fund promote a culture of solidarity and shared responsibility.
The fund reaches out to people with social, relational, or educational vulnerabilities, offering them a personalized path that includes training, internships, and accompaniment. Many participants have found not only a job but also a new sense of belonging and self-esteem. One example is a single mother who, after years of unemployment, was able to re-enter the workforce through an internship at a local company, regaining confidence in herself and her abilities.
The Role of the Christian Community
The Diocese of Milan has shown that the Church can be a significant social actor, capable of responding to people's concrete needs. The Let's Give Work Fund is not just a service but a sign of hope that involves the entire community: parishes, trade associations, entrepreneurs, and volunteers. As the Apostle Paul writes, 'Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver' (2 Corinthians 9:7). The generosity of many has made this project possible, showing that together we can make a difference.
A Look to the Future
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