Dr. K.P. Yohannan, Metropolitan Meets With Disaster-Affected Families in Sri Lanka; 250 Families Helped With Necessities

While Sri Lanka is still struggling to recover from the aftermath of floods and mudslides that ravaged the country in May, Metropolitan, Dr. K.P. Yohannan, along with the humanitarian assistance team from Believers Church Diocese of Colombo, visited Matara District on 13th July 2017 where they delivered relief supplies to the survivors of the twin disasters.

Metropolitan Dr. K.P. Yohannan handed over the relief items to the affected families. Bishop Lal Vanderwall, Bishop Dr. Simon John, Venerable Rev. Gam Maddegoda Vipulasena (Chief Incumbent of local Buddhist temple), Mr. Sumith Chandrasena (local government representative), Mr. Kumara Wickramananda (Village Mediation Committee President), officer in-charge of local Police Station and local government representatives were present during the distribution of the relief materials.

A total of 250 families received the relief items which included rice, dal, soya meat, salt, chilly powder, curry powder, tin fish, sugar, tea leaves, milk powder, biscuits and other essential items like candles, matchbox, washing soaps, bathing soaps and toothpaste.

The relief work was held in one of the most affected areas where the flood waters submerged several houses, causing large-scale destruction to life and property. The recipients were grateful for the help they received in the time of their greatest need.

“We are grateful to Metropolitan, Dr. K. P. Yohannan, and the Bishop of Colombo Diocese and the church volunteers who have come and extended help to the needy people of our village who greatly suffered due to the flood crisis in this area. This shows that irrespective of race, caste or religion, everyone can join together as one to help the humankind,” said Rev. Gam Maddegoda Vipulasena (Chief Incumbent of local Buddhist temple).

“I am so happy that today leaders of various religions joined together to help our affected villagers and this is a great honor,” said, Mr. Kumara Wickramananda (Village Mediation Committee President). He further added saying, “I sincerely thank Believers Church and Bishops for this great act of kindness.”