Weekly Updates - Update 22January 2005

Kushil’s Bungalow Transformed

The Relief Centre Secretariat has now been moved to Kushil’s Bungalow in Seenigama. Thanks to the hard work of USAID and local volunteers Kushil’s bungalow, has been cleaned is the new hub of communications and co-ordination of relief in Seenigama.

As you may know, prior to the tsunami there was already a community centre attached to Kushil’s bungalow, which over the last five years had been serving the village people. Now, Kushil has decided to devote the entire property for the benefit of the village.

This is an important step for the long term set up of Seenigama. Not only will the house be the base for co-ordination of the relief and rebuilding efforts, it is envisaged that the house will also be a training centre and community place.

Like in the past English lessons, computer training, sewing courses, maternity clinics and will be run out of the centre. Furthermore, the Foundation is currently looking at training Pre-School teachers in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Colombo Reconnections.

People Returning to Their Land

The people of Seenigama are also on the move. There has been a noticeable migration of Seenigama residents from the temple back to their land. From generous donations, the Foundation of Goodness has been able to supply tents to many families. These tents are not ideal long term accommodation but many villagers are happy to be able to be able to return to their own land.

Management Structure a Great Success

As mentioned in the previous up-date, the Foundation has introduced a new management structure to assist it address all the needs of the community in Seenigama. This can be viewed from the menu on the left of screen. These teams travel to Seenigama and engage with various sectors of the community. The Foundation wants to ensure that all work is undertaken in close consultation with the village people. New teams may be set up to help with cultural and environmental activities