During a visit to the southwestern and east coasts of Sri Lanka in March 2006, it was noticed that far less people were living in tents.  Most displaced people were living in sturdier structures - mostly temporary wood or metal structures.  This was the good news.  Unfortunately, very little of the promised new permanent housing had been completed yet.  Hopefully, the pace of construction of this new permanent housing will increase so displaced families can move into these structures as soon as possible.

As with previous visits, food was distributed to those in need.  Even though it has been some time since the damage caused by the tsunami, many families remain in financially difficult situations and struggle to survive - as such, the food we provided was quite helpful to and appreciated by tsunami affected families.  In addition, toys were distributed to children.

Back in January 2006, we requested one of Sri Lanka's most respected charitable organizations, Sarvodaya, to identify individuals that needed assistance in restoring their lives and livelihoods.

Through this partnership with Sarvadoya, we funded gifts to two individuals who were severely impacted by the tsunami, as well as provided funding for a gift to the children's ward of a hospital.

Mr. Pallanayaham had to have one of his legs amputed due to injuries sustained by the tsunami. As a result, he has been unable to travel easily within his village and no longer felt a part of his community. We funded the manufacture and delivery of a handicap accessible tricycle to Mr. Pallanayaham which will boost his self confidence and enable him to once again become a valuable member of his community.

Mr. Rahman had his business virtually destroyed by the tsunami which significantly reduced his income and eliminated the jobs of several of his employees.  We have funded the replacement of a loom for his business which will enable his business to return to be a source of income for his family and will allow him to rehire some employees residing in his community.

In addition, we funded the purchase of a television for a childrens hospital which was requested by them in an effort to get children needing medical attention to come to the hospital and obtain needed treatment.     

I was fortunate to be able to visit the recipients of these gifts with representatives of Sarvodaya when the gifts were being presented to them.

In addition, during March 2006, we worked with another respected Sri Lankan charitable organization, Karuna Trust, to identify two tsunami affected children to sponsor on a long term basis - one girl and one boy.

The girl that we chose to sponsor is 12 years old.  Unfortunately, her family was riding the train at the time of the tsunami and her father, mother and only sister all died. She is currently being looked after by her grandmother. 

The boy we chose to sponsor is 10 years old.  His father, who supported the family, unfortunately died while selling vegetables at the time of the tsunami.  He is currently living with his mother, two sisters and grandparents.

We hope that the financial assistance we are providing will be helpful to both of these children and their families.

For photos of March 2006 relief efforts, including recipients of Sarvodaya gifts and our sponsored children, please click on link below.