The story of little Harsi Sandamali, who lost her father under tragic circumstances, as she was to leave to sit for her Year 5 Scholarship Exam, was reported in the media. SLMA traced the little girl, living in Sooriyawewa, 225 km away in a deep rural hamlet of Southern Sri Lanka.

R.P. Sugandi, mother of Sandamali had to then cope with bringing up her three daughters, upon the loss of her husband who was the sole breadwinner. SLMA assessed her capabilities and ventured into a livelihood program to help the family with a sustainable income. A Singer Sewing electric machine was presented to Sugandi and training provided on its usage by the Company. Our very own member then provided her basic instructions and tips on how to embark on a vocation, so as to produce simple fabric carpets to be supplied to shops; thereby a steady monthly income was assured to the needy family.

“The sewing machine and training provided to me has given me a source of income. It has helped me to educate my daughters after the death of my husband,” said Sugandi in a letter addressed to the SLMA. “I wish your organization the strength and courage to lend a helping hand to many more helpless families.”

Ten year old Sandamali was taken under the care of SLMA, in terms of supporting her educational needs for a period of three years. Her tuition fees, school books and school requirements were provided through this special scholarship. Some of our Members who were trained school teachers monitored her lessons and exam results throughout the scholarship program, thus ensuring that she was encouraged and motivated to perform better.  

The project was funded through the goodwill of the people of Kuwait, which was channeled to SLMA, through the kind courtesy of the Ambassador of Kuwait in Sri Lanka.