DONATION OF DRY RATIONS AND EQUIPMENT TO SINHARAJA CAVE MONASTERY

Providing Essential Support to a Rural Monastery During the Pandemic

In light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have extended our support to the Sinharaja Cave Monastery in Sri Lanka by donating one metric ton of dry rations. This monastery, which houses 60 monks, including many young novices, has faced significant hardships due to the nationwide lockdown and the resulting halt in visitor donations. Additionally, recognizing the importance of education for the young monks, we also provided five personal computers and two UPS devices to the monastery’s Pirivena, enhancing their learning environment. This report outlines the details of our donation and its impact on the monastery community.

We would like to acknowledge and extend our heartfelt thanks to all the club members for their tremendous support in the success of this project. Your dedication and collective efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of these young monks, ensuring they have the necessary resources to continue their education and daily activities during these challenging times.

PROJECT CHAIRPERSONS :

Lion Kasun Kodippily & Lion K. Chinthaka.

PROJECT DATE:

13th December 2020

In response to the critical situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we generously donated one metric ton of dry rations to the Sinharaja Cave Monastery in Sri Lanka. The nationwide lockdown due to the pandemic has severely impacted the monastery, as it relies heavily on the support and visits from devotees, which have come to a complete halt. This monastery, home to 60 monks, including many who are under the age of 15, faced significant challenges in sustaining their daily needs. Our donation aimed to provide immediate relief and ensure that the monks have sufficient food during these unprecedented times.

The Sinharaja Cave Monastery is not just a place of worship but also an educational hub, housing a Pirivena where young monks pursue their education. Pirivenas in rural areas like Sinharaja often operate with minimal facilities, relying on the limited funds donated by local communities. Recognizing the importance of education in the holistic development of these young monks, we also donated five personal computers and two UPS devices to the Pirivena. This contribution aims to enrich their learning environment and provide them with the necessary tools to enhance their educational experience.

In a speech given by Chief Venerable Demuwawatha Chandananda Thero, the significance of our donation was highlighted. He expressed profound gratitude for the timely support, emphasizing how it would help sustain the monastery and its residents during this challenging period. The Chief Venerable also underscored the broader impact of our contribution, which goes beyond immediate relief, aiding in the continuous education and personal development of the young monks. This gesture of solidarity and support has not only addressed their immediate needs but also fostered hope and encouragement within the monastery community.

Monasteries like Sinharaja, located in remote and less populous areas, face significant financial constraints. Unlike urban temples that might receive more substantial and frequent donations, rural monasteries often struggle with limited resources. This situation is exacerbated during times of crisis, such as the current pandemic. Understanding these challenges, our donation aimed to bridge the gap and provide much-needed support to an institution that plays a crucial role in the community. By addressing both their nutritional and educational needs, we hope to contribute to the well-being and development of the monks.

In conclusion, our donation to the Sinharaja Cave Monastery reflects a commitment to supporting communities in times of need. It acknowledges the dual role of the monastery as a place of worship and education, ensuring that the monks have the necessary resources to thrive. The positive reception of our donation, as expressed by Chief Venerable Demuwawatha Chandananda Thero, reinforces the importance of such initiatives. Moving forward, we remain dedicated to providing continued support and fostering resilience in rural religious and educational institutions across Sri Lanka.