Supporting Bright Futures: Urgent Appeal for Assistance to Ragama Boys Town Project in Sri Lanka

I am reaching out to you on behalf of the Diyagala Boys Town project in Ragama, Sri Lanka, a remarkable charity that has been dedicated to serving marginalized youth in the country for over 60 years. I would like to highlight the commendable work undertaken by the Ragama Boys Town project in Sri Lanka, which is run by the De La Salle Brothers, a charitable mission focused on education. This government-registered facility has been providing in-house vocational training to marginalized youth from various ethnic groups and religions for over six decades. The initiative aims to create a brighter future for these young individuals in our community.

Throughout its existence, Ragama Boys Town has played a crucial role in empowering young people facing significant challenges. The project has equipped them with essential life skills, vocational training, and educational opportunities, enabling them to pursue successful careers and contribute positively to society. This aligns with the vision of De La Salle, the patron saint of youth and education, who has played a key role in providing education to disadvantaged youth worldwide. The project has truly served as a beacon of hope for countless young minds.

However, like many organizations, Ragama Boys Town has encountered profound difficulties in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent economic crisis affecting our country. Consequently, the project is currently struggling to maintain its operations and meet the needs of the youth it serves.

Therefore, I respectfully request your assistance in three primary areas:

1. Christmas Gifts: We kindly ask for small Christmas presents for the youth and staff of Ragama Boys Town. Items such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, cups, plates, stationery, calculators, and similar necessities would be greatly appreciated. These simple gifts will bring joy to the hearts of these young individuals, reminding them that they are valued and cared for during this festive season.

2. Meal Assistance: The project is also in need of support in providing meals for the youth. Dry rations such as rice, dhal, soy protein, sugar, dry fish, and other non-perishable food items would go a long way in ensuring the nutritional well-being of these young individuals who rely on the project for their sustenance. Additionally, we are initiating a 'Share a Meal program,' where individuals or groups can share a meal with the trainees on special occasions like wedding anniversaries, birthdays, religious days like Christmas, etc.

3. Kitchen Amenities: The kitchen in the facility, which cooks meals for the youth trainees and staff, is in need of amenities such as cups, plates, spoons, rice cookers, cooking pans, etc.

Any assistance you can provide, whether in the form of donations or by connecting us with potential sponsors, would be immensely helpful and deeply appreciated. Perhaps your Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program or some of your staff members could contribute on an individual basis. Your generosity will directly impact the lives of marginalized youth, providing them with hope and a chance at a brighter future.

Donations in kind can be directly handed over to Diyagala Boys Town in Ragama, Sri Lanka. For inquiries, further information, or to arrange the pickup of donations, please contact Rev. Bro. Garanville Perera at 0770386603, my number at 0763186287.

Thank you for considering our request. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of these deserving young individuals who are striving to stand on their own feet.