Canadian Red Cross helps families in need in Sri Lanka

Topics: Worldwide, Our Impact on the Ground
December 31, 2012

Canadian Red Cross helps families in need in Sri Lanka

As part of the world's largest charity organization, the Canadian Red Cross plays a crucial role in providing assistance to those in need around the world. From emergencies and disasters to relief programs, the Canadian Red Cross continually leaves an impact on the ground.

In Sri Lanka, the effects of the 2004 tsunami and other natural disasters continue to be felt to this day. However, with help from the Canadian Red Cross, children like Avishka Daanjaya, a Sri Lankan who lost his home following the tsunami, have been able to build resiliency and hope for a better tomorrow.

Avishka's story
Avishka is from Colombo, Sri Lanka, and while he's experienced several setbacks in his young life - including the loss of his mother, who was killed in an accident, and the destruction of his childhood home following the 2004 tsunami - he knows he has the love and support of his family.

"These are my brothers and sisters," says Avishka, referring to the children who live in the same apartment complex as he does. "And I love them."

Yet, according to Avishka's father, Darmadasa Fonseka, the little boy doesn't have any siblings. Instead, what he does have is a community of children and adults who have rallied behind him and formed an extended family, offering support and care.

"For [Avishka], they are his family now too," explains Darmadasa.

Helping those in need in Sri Lanka
Avishka and his father live in an apartment complex created by the Red Cross - it's one of many relief projects offered by the organization to help those affected by natural disasters in the country.

"When the tsunami... struck, thousands of families just like Avishka's lost more than just their home," said Pamela Davie, an aid worker for the Canadian Red Cross. "They lost their family, their friends and their support systems."

Yet, with help from the Red Cross, people in need have been able to rebuild, not just homes but neighborhoods, friendships and most importantly, support systems.

"From day one the Red Cross set out to rebuild more than just homes," adds Davie.

The Red Cross has offered many different forms of assistance to those in Sri Lanka, and has worked with Sri Lankans displaced by the disaster, to foster a deeper sense of community in an effort to ease the settlement process.

Making a difference
The Canadian Red Cross provides an essential layer of support for relief action on the ground in Sri Lanka and helps children like Avishka establish deep connections in the community with aid programs.

To show your support for the humanitarian work of the Canadian Red Cross, please donate online or at your local Canadian Red Cross office today. With each donation, you can help make a difference in the lives of children and others in need. 

Section Widgets