Ongoing Projects: Sri Lanka Manacare completed a project in Sri Lanka in 1996 at Ragama Hospital, bringing its expertise for application in the Disability Unit, mainly for those having lost limbs after having been subjected to injury from mine explosions. Cerebral Palsy children are also given therapy as are elderly stroke victims. Because of this connection, Manacare made its decision to direct its post-Tsunami aid to Sri Lanka. Two projects are currently underway in Sri Lanka: First Project A month after the Tsunami which hit Sri Lanka in December 2004, Manacare carried out extensive survey work and as a result of findings have endeavoured to pitch its work where no other NGO's are as yet making provision, that is Community development. Many voluntary organizations are building housing, but it was felt that the necessary infrastructure leading to a secure future for the victims of Tsunami needed to be put into place, maybe alongside housing projects. Manacare purchased 2.3 acres of land, in Tellwatta which is 10 miles east of the town of Ambulangoda, and 10 miles west before the tourist town of Hikaduwa, famous for its diving holidays. Architectural plans were drawn up and those plans are now being followed by a team of workers consisting of two British workmen and local men and women who have suffered losses either family or livelihoods. Skilled local builders are also employed. The completed project will provide the following: School, Medical Clinic, Therapy, Creche, Playground and Garden Area, Vocational Training. Click here for more information including details on the second phase of this project and its current status. Second Project The second of the Manacare Sri Lanka projects is split into two areas: Hambantota and Trincomalee. In Hambantota, Manacare has accepted land in this Eastern town from Mr Doole, a private donor, and will carry out a duplicate of the first project in cooperation with the Malay Association of Sri Lanka. In Trincomalee, Manacare has entered into a Joint Project with the United Assemblies of God in Trincomalee and provided all tools necessary to commence repairing extensive damage to homes in this northern territory. Click here for more information on these projects. Conclusions On physical completion of the first phase of the three Hopes and Dreams projects Manacare will be providing the worst hit areas of Tsunami with Educational Facilities, Medical Facilities, Vocational Training, Individual Therapy Programmes, Counselling, Care for the very young, and a range of competitive Sports Training schemes.

The final phase will provide Housing for four of the most vulnerable groups of people brought about as a consequence of Tsunami, making the scheme as a whole one of the most sought after for provision in the many areas of devastation. Continuous fund raising is going to be necessary for the first three years after which it is expected that each Centre will have its own sustainability programme in full operation. Manacare will take full responsibility for the advancement, improvement and expansion of the projects. It is hoped that volunteers around the world will continue to offer their help and advice, and that sponsors will continue to offer their financial support for many years to come. Manacare wishes to find similar groups to twin with groups operating in the projects both for the personal growth of participants and to continue creating overseas interest and support. Also to twin companies around the world to help with sustainability, almost creating a Corporate Social Responsibility programme.

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