We are pleased that loans have been disbursed to the first group of women in our micro-credit program.  The loans help these women living in the Tangalle area enhance the income of their families and provide them with the means to move in the direction of becoming self-sufficient.  As these women repay their loans, additional women will receive new loans and additional families will benefit from this program.  Loans are initially in the amount of 5,000 Sri Lankan Rupees (approximately $50 US) and are to be repaid in monthly payments over a two year period.  No interest is being charged on these loans.  This program, similar to micro-credit programs in other countries, should prove to be very successful at providing long-term assistance to a significant number of tsunami affected families.

We had the opportunity to meet these women and hear about how the loans have improved their livelihood, as well as provide them with small gifts and well wishes.

We also had the opportunity to visit a housing development for tsunami affected families that was built by Plan International.  We provided funding for this project some time ago and are pleased that the houses have now been built and the development looks very impressive.

For photos of our visit with the women in our micro-credit program, as well as photos of Plan International's housing project, please click below.  We hope to post photos of our recently sponsored children in the Batticaloa area next month.

Thank you for your continued support of those in need in Sri Lanka!