In Video: Pope Francis gave his remaining money to fund pasta factory at juvenile detention center
The Saucy Story of Pasta Furro: A Factory with a Heart
In the culinary heart of Italy, pasta is more than just a staple food – it’s a way of life. In fact, many Italians believe that pasta should be made with just two simple ingredients: semolina and water. However, one small factory in Rome is breaking this tradition with a special ingredient that goes beyond the ordinary: hope.
A Glimpse into Pasta Furro
Located just outside the Castle Del Marmo Juvenile Detention Center in Rome, Pasta Furro is no ordinary factory. The business is owned by Carmen Gallo, a woman with a passion for giving second chances. Her employees are current or former inmates who are trying to rebuild their lives after time behind bars. It’s a truly unique sight to see inmates occupied with making pasta, a task that not only teaches them a valuable skill but also provides them with a chance to turn their lives around.
The Pope’s Generous Gift
However, what sets Pasta Furro apart is its connection to the Catholic Church. In 2016, Pope Francis visited the detention center and celebrated Holy Thursday by washing the feet of the young inmates. Before leaving, he stunned everyone by revealing that he had bequeathed all his savings of €200,000 to the factory. This substantial donation was a game-changer for Pasta Furro, allowing Carmen Gallo to pay off the factory’s mortgage and secure its future.
A Future with Hope
The factory’s food technologist, John Franco Desaderi, is passionate about the factory’s mission. He says, "I started here to make a good pasta, but then I understood the real purpose of this project… To help these guys change their lives." The team at Pasta Furro is dedicated to making not just delicious pasta but also turning men into better citizens. Franco adds, "You’re trying to make good men. I’m trying." His dedication is a testament to the impact of Pope Francis’s kindness.
A Papal Boost
As news of the Pope’s donation spread, Pasta Furro experienced a remarkable surge in sales. People from all over the world wanted a taste of the pasta bearing the Pope’s endorsement. Each bag now carries a special message: "Don’t let your hope be stolen." This newfound success is a direct result of the Pope’s selfless act, proving that giving can create a ripple effect of kindness and positivity.
A Culinary Legacy
Pasta Furro’s story has sparked hope in those who hear it. The factory’s team is living proof that a second chance can be a new beginning. With the Pope’s donation and a population that cares, Pasta Furro is serving as more than just a pasta factory – it’s a symbol of redemption and a reminder that everyone deserves a chance to start anew.
