Eastern Project, Sri Lanka

See the progress you helped make happen in your sponsored community

When the project started, the community was facing enormous challenges due to the decades-long civil war. There was a lack of basic education, health services and clean water. Many families had lost their homes and struggled to make a living.

Thanks to your support, your sponsored child and other children in the Eastern community have improved access to education, healthcare and clean water and their families have new income opportunities.

Together we've achieved so much

11 pre-schools were built and furnished

This has helped to increase the percentage of children aged 3-5 attending pre-school to 94 percent.

  • 3,266 children benefited from extra tuition in grades 6-8, and teachers are now receiving a proper salary to ensure that quality teachers are attracted to the area.
  • 73 percent of children are now functionally literate, up from 60 percent in 2012. Three libraries were built and furnished and 1,037 children in grades three to five attended extra literacy classes.
  • Two technology centres with computers have been set up to help students learn computer skills. Youth can now access vocational training in sewing, hotel management, machine operating and shoemaking to increase their livelihood opportunities.

10 health centres were upgraded and two dental centres built

This has increased access to healthcare for children and their families.

  • The number of severely malnourished children has dropped by 68 percent, following health and nutrition programs that provided nourishment for 480 children and helped 807 families learn about good nutrition.
  • 89 percent of households have access to clean water after the project worked with the community to build 1,787 individual wells.
  • 2,665 home toilets were built, leading to 76 percent of households having access to proper sanitation, up from 45 percent in 2012. Toilets were also upgraded in six pre-schools.

Poverty has decreased by 31 percent since 2012

1,059 families gained support and technical training to improve their livelihoods and increase their incomes.

  • Farmers are earning more income through raising livestock such as goats, cows and chickens, and milk production.
  • Training in sewing, shopkeeping, bicycle repairs and flour production helped families start or expand small businesses.
  • 1,253 families joined savings groups and were trained in financial skills.

"My children are happy that my income has increased. "

- Malika, mother and small business owner