As we close another extraordinary year, thank you. Your generosity has touched the lives of 56 babies at Ruhunu orphanage, strengthened vulnerable families, put nutritious meals on plates, supported courageous care leavers, enabled Nimmu’s powerful book, helped rebuild a local business, brought hopes and dreams to children in 22 orphanages, and helped children learn, play and thrive through excellent early-learning and community education. Because of you, children have been fed and protected, families have stayed together, and young people who once felt forgotten now feel seen.
Most importantly, together we have taken major steps toward systems change. With NGO partners, orphanage managers and national childcare services, we are building a strong coalition towards Sri Lanka’s first foster care system—so every child can grow up with the love and belonging of a family, and no child is left behind.
To our trustees, patrons and friends who believe in ending the heartbreak of separation through poverty: thank you. This is the true spirit of the season—hope, dignity, and the belief that every child deserves a loving family.
Family livelihoods: Ranil’s business rebound
Last year, Ranil contacted TFT in desperation. Both his children needed costly medication, and the family’s cottage industry had collapsed. Rather than short-term relief alone, we backed Ranil to rebuild: coaching, small-scale working capital and sales support.
One year on, Ranil writes:
“Today we have a solid customer base, supplying several prominent shopping malls. We are expanding and employing women from under-privileged families. None of this was possible without TFT’s generous assistance and guidance.”
His handmade toys now bring income, dignity and jobs. Ranil dreams of exporting to the UK (£14 per toy). If you can advise on import, retail or distribution—especially for ethical, handmade products—please get in touch.
Care leavers: Vijay earns his chef credential
Care leaver Vijay has battled low confidence and life without family support. He recently completed NVQ Level 3 in Pastry & Baking at Nest Academy. Planning to slip in quietly to support him on graduation day, Lynn was invited to present certificates as Guest of Honour. The Academy’s founder, Mr M. Fausz, has now opened pathways for other care leavers through low-cost sponsorships. Vijay is thriving—and already giving back.
School meals and education: Thiniyawala School
“Some children come to school for the meal—it may be the only food they eat that day,” one teacher shared with Nimmu during a visit with Mr Percy and his daughters. The welcome was warm; the need is real. So far this year, you have funded 38,591 meals for 256 children across two schools—improving attendance, concentration and health, and helping keep children with their families and out of institutions.
Crisis response: Cyclone Ditwah
When Cyclone Ditwah struck, the Commissioner called Nimmu at 2 a.m. for urgent support. With flooding, landslides and widespread outages reported, Team TFT mobilised:
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Emergency kitchen in Colombo; meals provided to 1,500 displaced people.
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Appeals and collections for food, water, clothing and sanitary items.
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Missing-persons helpline and emergency numbers shared via social media.
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Field distributions by care leavers and volunteers; Mr Percy coordinated supplies from Galle.
Latest local updates to us reported hundreds of lives lost, tens of thousands displaced and severe infrastructure damage. We will continue targeted relief while prioritising long-term family stability.
How you can help
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Fund the work: help us support school meals, prevent abandonment and family reunification.
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Open doors: corporate partnerships, media, logistics and export advice (especially for Ranil’s toys).
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Share the message: help us advocate for a future where institutions are the last resort and every child grows up in a family.
Wishing you and your families peace, love and a healthy New Year.
With loving kindness,
Lynn, Joel and the TFT Team
Their Future Today
