Jeewa gives life to the needy

Ruwini Jayawardana

Just as most great projects started off on a small scale, so did the activities of the Jeewa (Life)Foundation. The foundation conducts a variety of charity programs each year spearheaded by a woman with a compassionate soul.

Concy Perera is never one to idle. She spearheads sponsorship programs for school events, underprivileged families, religious institutions, hospitals and institutions housing disabled soldiers. They have donated wheelchairs, spectacles, sewing machines and many more items to the needy.

“At first, I began on a small scale. I helped a few people who were close to me and in need of dry rations and clothes. Later the activities took on a much broader scale and many more joined the cause. That was when Jeewa took shape. We were able to gather many who were willing to dedicate their time and energy to help the underprivileged. Our slogan is ‘We Will Give Life to You’,” she explained. Their most recent project involved donating gifts, mostly electronic equipment, to the disabled war heroes of the Ragama Ranaviru Sevana.

“A colourful function was held on behalf of the event in January. Channa Wijewardena and his troupe performed four dance items.

The soldiers were thrilled because they said this is the first time they had witnessed such an entertaining program. The public holds felicitations for them and donate goods for them but they never think of organizing events to entertain them.

They too like to enjoy themselves by witnessing such stimulating events because it soothes their minds from the dreadful experiences they had undergone,” she noted adding that we are able to lead a peaceful life today because of their effort.

“They sacrificed themselves for us and it is our responsibility to be there for them when they need us. We need to let them know that they are not alone and that we are by their side,” she stressed.

The Jeewa Foundation also organizes a blood donation annually with the assistance of the Sri Lanka Blood Bank. They also distribute equipment for schoolchildren and dry rations for the poor.

“A small act can go a long way for it brings immense relief and happiness to those in need. If each of the well-off people of the country set aside one day out of the 365 days in the calendar to aid the needy, we would be able to build a better future. I do not expect anything back for my deeds. It is something which comes from the heart,” she concluded with a smile.