Rebuilding War Torn Lives - Relief Efforts in Sri Lanka
Over One Thousand Kerosene Pressure Cooking Stoves for IDPs
During my previous visit to the refugee camps, I noticed how many difficulties the IDPs (Internationally Displaced Persons) encountered because they were unable to heat tea, milk for children, or special meals for the sick. I discussed this matter with the General who is in charge of the area, explaining to him the difficulties of…
Healthcare Centers for War Victims
As part of our effort to ease the suffering of the people who were affected by war we are building two healthcare centers in two IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) camps. Each camp has 1,400 families who all live in tents on the newly cleared land. I consider this effort one of the most urgent needs…
Helping the War-Affected Children
Kabithigollawa, the area I recently visited in Sri Lanka, is one that many people are scared of traveling to. It is known as a border village, in which there has been constant conflict, gunfire, and killings. People in this area have lived under extremely difficult conditions for over 30 years, many having died. Finally, people…
Lessons of the Lotus for Special Task Force Officers
A 30 year war has ended and now we all must put our efforts together to heal the wounds of war and create communal harmony. When we think of the emotional and physical well-being of the people of Sri Lanka, we must remember the veterans who fought the war and their struggle to make sense…
A Thousand Thank Yous on Behalf of a Thousand Families
On the 29th of June I toured the IDP (internally displaced persons) camps in Sri Lanka. When I arrived at one of the camps, the officer in charge of the area told me about the need for milk powder and sugar for the people who live in that particular camp. The camp housed 1,400 families…
Homes for 100 Families – Already Under Construction
We are delighted to announce that the construction of homes for 100 families is already under way and expected to finish on the 30th of June, 2009. One of our frequent and most generous donors Mr. Anura Perera has provided us the funds needed for the first 100 homes. We have signed contracts with two…
Veterans of War – Let Us Help Them as Well
It is absolutely imperative that attention is paid to helping the veterans to regain as normal a life as possible, as soon as possible. It is an integral part of the peace building process after war and must not be overlooked. During the past two years of the war more than 6,000 soldiers were killed…
Just After War – Peace Building Efforts
When I arrived in Sri Lanka just days ago, the national flag was flying everywhere. Everyone I spoke with was happy that the war has finally ended. Incredibly, I noticed fewer road blocks and less military presence on the streets than before. It took a while for me to begin to believe that the past…
