Taking Care of 50 Vulnerable Sri Lankan Children

During our recent visit to Trincomalee, we were fortunate to meet with a group of children who at some point, were students at the Sunshine Preschool. Bringing them together, hearing their stories and reflecting on their time at school was a wonderful experience. Learning of their current day to day activities made us aware of their hopes and dreams. It was a great impact assessment learning tool. We can say with confidence that these children would not have had early childhood education if not for the Sunshine Preschool which meets the child’s educational and nutritional needs, provides school uniforms, learning material, creative opportunities, English language classes on a non-fee levying basis.  With both government and privately managed preschools in the area levying directly or indirectly some charge, their parents, most of them living below the poverty cannot afford preschool education. Their children would have stayed home helping with household chores. Education, empowers vulnerable children to dream big, to embrace life with certainty and move forward. Our presence in the eastern province of Sri Lanka has contributed in a big way.

“What I remember most is you placing me on your lap and hugging me,” said one of them. Another talked of his morning meals telling us how he looked forward mostly to his plate of noodles! We also remembered Andrew now a big boy, who sang with his friends for a singing competition. His mother use to sell fruit grown in her home garden. During the covid lock-down they wore masks and sold the fruit on the roadside. “I would practice my English with those who walked by,” said a smiling Andrew.