Friends in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a Third World country and still in a humanitarian catastrophe. Marked by 26 years of civil war, which finally ended in the middle of 2009, economy and infrastructure have been seriously affected. As often under such bad conditions the smallest and weakest of the community are suffering most – the children. Numerous children and teenagers have lost their families and while living in the streets have become victims of violent acts.
From the start of the organization FRIENDS has been active directly on site in Sri Lanka. In December 2004 the so far biggest Tsunami catastrophe hit the coast of Sri Lanka und destroyed the foundation of existence for 10 thousands of families.
This incident has strongly influenced the project activities of FRIENDS Kinderhilfe International e.V. within the last years. Many of our long-term projects are resulting from the on-the-site aid in Tsunami camps and they are still continuing in these regions. Mainly our various education programs meet the approval of children of socially disadvantaged families depending on free education.
Since 2003 the German chairwoman, Sylvia Merkle from Göppingen is living in the poor island state. Long-lasting relationships and friendships have grown enabling FRIENDS to implement projects result-oriented and under own supervision.