Ath Waruwa (2024-02-19)

“Athwaruwa” (A Supportive Hand) Project

Turning struggling letters into a steady hand to help children conquer the world.

Date: February 19, 2024
School: Pu/ Kalpitiya Arogya Matha Primary School

The Connection

I first discovered this school in July 2023 through a university batchmate from Jayewardenepura University (Psychology Department) who teaches there. Knowing my involvement in school welfare programs, she brought the school’s needs to my attention.

When I shared the details of this school with Chef Kumudu Kottegoda, a member of our organization, she introduced the cause to Chef Ajith of Cinnamon Lake Hotel. Every year, Chef Ajith and a team of fellow chefs select one underprivileged school to provide all the necessary books and equipment for the entire student body for the year.

The Visit

Upon visiting the school in Kalpitiya, Puttalam, we realized how secluded it was—it didn’t even have a signboard, despite being less than 500 meters from the main road. Our discussions with the Principal paved the way for the massive transformation we see today.

A Transformation Worth Over 1 Million Rupees

What started as a request for books blossomed into a massive infrastructure project. For the 135 students studying at this school, we were able to coordinate resources for:

Electricity connection for the entire school.
Installation of a water motor.
Installation of two school signboards.
Providing doors for the toilets.
Providing cupboards for storage.

It brings me humble joy to have been able to find the donors required for this project, which exceeded 1 million rupees (Rs. 1,000,000) in total value.

Honoring the Foundation

This school’s history is deeply moving. It began in a small hut on land prone to tidal flooding. The foundation and the initial buildings were made possible through the personal contribution of over 5 million rupees by Colonel Kissiri Fernando, a military officer during the war. Although he could not complete the buildings due to his retirement and the country’s situation at the time, his initial labor and vision remain highly commendable and must be remembered with honor.

Heartfelt Gratitude

The successful completion of this phase was led by Chef Ajith, alongside a dedicated group of chefs from Cinnamon Lake and Cinnamon Grand hotels, as well as several other kind-hearted individuals. Together, they have provided a beacon of light for these children who dream of a better future.

To the loving people who wiped away the tears of these future leaders and gave them the strength to blossom like flowers in a difficult land: May these noble deeds be a source of immense merit and blessings to you and your families.

Thank you!

Human Heart – The Heart of Humanity 🤝 Heartfelt Humanity (හෘදයාංගම මනුස්සකම)