Colombo Diocese Initiates Poultry Assistance Program to Empower the Poor

Nuwara Eliya District, situated in the Central province of Sri Lanka, has long grappled with economic challenges attributed to its high altitude and cooler climate. The local population, primarily engaged in tea plantation and cultivation, faces heightened difficulties due to the escalating prices of essential items, impacting household sustainability.

In a proactive response to the economic crisis, the Colombo Diocese has launched a unique initiative to provide relief to struggling families in Nuwara Eliya District. The diocese recently distributed 4-month-old hens to 119 families, with each beneficiary receiving five hens accompanied by necessary medicines.

The primary goal of the initiative is not only to offer immediate relief but also to empower families to generate sustainable income through poultry farming. During the distribution program, staff from the Ministry of Agriculture’s Animal Production and Development provided comprehensive guidance on crucial aspects such as feeding, caring, and medicating the hens, imparting valuable knowledge to the recipients.

The program has been met with expressions of gratitude from the participants who praised the church for its timely assistance during this critical period.

Rupavathi, one of the beneficiaries, expressed her appreciation, stating, “In the face of rising expenses, I want to acknowledge the positive impact of this initiative taken by the church. During challenging times, you have offered us a source of hope.” Following the program, participants were treated to refreshments.