Colombo Friend-in-Need Society tsunami housing project

THE Colombo Friend-in-Need (CFINS) launched the Tsunami Housing Project to rebuild houses in some areas affected by the tsunami.

Under Phase I of the Project, 28 completely damaged houses in Venamulla, Kuleegoda and Dimbulduwa have been re-built at Rs. 7,813,836.

These houses which were formally handed over on September 4, have been re-built according to the same plan as the damaged houses and were among the first permanent houses to be completed in the area, being ready for occupation by mid May.

The beneficiaries were selected in consultation with Ven. Sanganayaka of the Southern Province and Chief Incumbent of Wenamulla Sri Sumanaramaya and other community leaders.

A damaged building of Dimbulduwa Junior School was also repaired at Rs. 228, 125.

Arrangements are under way to build a further 35 houses under Phase II of the project.

These houses will be built according to a type plan and provide over 550 square feet of floor space. Work on Phase II commenced on August 31, 2005.

Re-building of houses is only the first step in the process of rehabilitation and re-building the lives of the families affected. CFINS expects to assist communities in their efforts to restore their livelihood.

This woman a tsunami victim got a house for her family. Though she has lost most of her belongings she still earns her living by spinning coir ropes.