SKIP Newcastle - Sri Lanka

SKIP Newcastle’s first project began in July 2006 in Uswetakeiyawa, a community in Sri Lanka that faced many economic and social problems. We aimed to improve the lives of children here through nutritional and educational support as well as through play. Unfortunately, due to political unrest in Sri Lanka it has been deemed unsafe for us to continue our work in the region. We continue to fund existing interventions whilst looking for support from other NGOs to work with the children of this community.

History

After a research trip to Sri Lanka in July 2006, we decided to work with a pastor in the community of Uswetakeiyawa, north of the capital Colombo. The community had many economic and social problems, with children left as orphans due to war, and economic migration, and sometimes to drugs and alcohol. We felt SKIP volunteers could help give love, care and attention to children in the area.

Our local partner in the area, Pastor Sarath, worked with local children, focusing on those with social and family problems. He worked with national and international Christian organizations, and is a member of the Evangelical church. However, this does not affect his work with the children adversely in any way, allowing equal access to all denominations and parts of the community.

What did this project involve?

Our project focused on giving attention to children, while teaching English and other fun activities. These included art and craft, music, health and nutrition, sports and dance.

During summer 2007, classes took place after normal school hours, with 10-12 volunteers teaching 60-70 children aged 3-15. Two cultural shows took place during this time to engage the project with the community. A feeding program was implemented, consisting of milk and bananas or beans and rice, 2-3 times a week.

The project continued after SKIP volunteers returned home in September. Two local teachers were funded by SKIP Newcastle, and with help from the Pastor and his daughters, the project ran until December 2008.

Due to political unrest, civil war, and increasing terrorist attacks in the country, SKIP Newcastle could not send volunteers to Sri Lanka after 2007. This was a difficult decision to make, after the long term plans we had made with the community. However, we have continued funding the project until August 2009, and are hoping to find another organization or charity that is willing to help the pastor continue his work.

Contact us

For more information about SKIP Newcastle or our previous project in Sri Lanka please contact us at skipnewcastle@googlemail.com.