On July 13, 2017, Peace Winds Japan (PWJ) and its local partner Asia Pacific Alliance for Disaster Management Sri Lanka (A-PAD) completed the distribution of Kitchen sets and bedding sets to total 1,685 families in Dodangoda Division in Kalutara District in Western Province of Sri Lanka.

Dodangoda district staff, A. Kushan Akalanka Perera, has been working around the clock to support communities in need for assistance. “We are very thankful that Peace Winds selected our district.  We received some government assistance for the flood relief right after the flood, but it wasn’t enough at all.  Until Peace Winds and A-Pad, there was no organizations came to talk to us.” said Mr. Perera.

Beneficiaries waiting for the distribution (Left)   PWJ staff and community leaders in Dodangoda, Mr. Perera (second from right) (Right)

Even though Dodangoda Division is located right next to the heavily flooded region, because the area was not publicized widely, they had received so little support.

“My house was completely flooded and lost all the kitchen equipment.  I haven’t been able to cook at home ever since.” said Pathumi Rasanjali, 32.  “I am looking forward to cooking meals for my family.”

Distribution was joined by a group of college students from Colombo, and their swift and efficient work helped to complete this successful distribution day to complete on time.

Big smile from a kitchen set recipient (Left)    PWJ staff and distribution volunteers (Right)

This project is funded by Japan Platform and PWJ and A-PAD supporters.