In many remote parts of Sri Lanka, the absence of reliable electricity has long been a challenge, especially for students striving to learn and families trying to manage their daily lives. Thanks to the unwavering generosity of the Anduren Eliyata Charity in Sydney, Australia, facilitated and coordinated by Roger and Rozanne Perera, hundreds of lives have now been brightened through the donation of solar-powered lights to rural communities across the island.
This remarkable donation initiative took place in five impactful stages, each one bringing light and hope to underserved regions:
1. 20 Solar Buddy Lights – Nuwara Eliya District
The first batch of donations included 20 solar-powered torch lamps distributed to students from the Village Heartbeat Empowerment Centres in Hatton, Kotmale, Ragala and Maskeliya, all located within the Nuwara Eliya District. For these young learners, the lamps have become an essential tool for studying at night and navigating dark and rainy days. They’ve also proven invaluable during emergencies, ensuring children are not left in the dark. These small but powerful lights are helping students pursue education with confidence and consistency.
2. 100 Solar Buddy Lights – Hasalaka, Kandy District
Next, 100 solar buddy lights were delivered to the remote mountain village of Udagaladebokka in Hasalaka. Distributed among 33 families, with each family receiving three lights and one light donated to the local temple, this gift has had a transformative impact. In a region with limited resources, the presence of reliable light has improved evening routines, enhanced safety and made everyday tasks more manageable.
3. 250 Solar Buddy Lights – Trincomalee, Mahiyanganaya, Udumulla & Delft Island
The third donation was especially wide-reaching. Of the 250 solar buddy lights generously contributed, the first 50 were given to students at T/T/Kumpurupiddy Methodist Mission Tamil Mixed School in Kuchchaveli, Trincomalee District, where frequent power cuts have long disrupted studies. An additional 33 lights were distributed to families in Mahiyanganaya and 9 more in Udumulla. The remaining 158 lights were delivered to the remote Delft Island in the Jaffna District, where access to electricity remains limited. Across these regions, the donation has not only illuminated homes but also empowered brighter futures.
4. 14 Large Solar Lights – Delft Island
The fourth batch saw 14 large solar lights sent to key locations across Delft Island, including the Delft Navy, Catholic Sister Convent, Kanthan Karunai Preschool, Delft Community Centre, Delft Jetty and several community organisations such as The Association of Sea Workers in Kulanthai Jesu, Valamburi, Alaikadal, Youtheju, Alai Oosai and Valar Pirai. These lights are now serving entire community hubs, enhancing security, accessibility and community services after sunset.
5. 150 Solar Buddy Lights – Delft Island
The fifth and final donation brought 150 solar buddy lights to even more households in Delft Island. Distributed among 50 families with each receiving three lights, this contribution has significantly improved the quality of life for these rural residents. For families without consistent electricity, these solar lights have meant safer nights, better opportunities for children to study, and a sense of dignity in their daily lives.
These donations are more than just sources of light, they are beacons of kindness, bridging the gap between urban privilege and rural hardship. On behalf of all the communities touched by this initiative, we extend our sincere gratitude to Roger and Rozanne Perera and the Anduren Eliyata Charity for their steadfast commitment to uplifting lives across Sri Lanka.
Together, we are one step closer to lighting up every home in need.
