CMS sponsor MEARS – Project Sri Lanka 2009 – Hopes & Dreams Village
The Hopes and Dreams Village is a community project which was created after the dreadful Tsunami hit Sri Lanka in
December 2004. The village was created by the Manacare Foundation, a charity established to bring relief to those less
fortunate, especially children and adults with disabilities. A month after the Tsunami hit Sri Lanka; Manacare carried out extensive survey work and as a result of findings pitched its work where no other Non Governmental Organisation's were making provision, namely community development. Many voluntary organisations were building housing, but it was felt that to ensure a secure future for the victims of the Tsunami it was necessary to put in place the appropriate infrastructure, alongside such housing projects.
Manacare purchased 2.3 acres of land, in Telwatta, which is 10 miles east of the town of Ambulangoda, and 10 miles
west before the tourist town of Hikkaduwa, famous for its diving holidays. Architectural plans were drawn up and those
plans were followed by a team of workers consisting of two British workmen and local men and women who had
suffered either family or livelihood losses. Skilled local builders were also employed. The completed project provided; schools, medical clinics, therapy, crèches, playgrounds & garden areas and vocational training.
For more information go to www.mearsgroup.co.uk |
