This year’s International Volunteer Day carries special significance for Sri Lanka, following the severe impact of Cyclone Ditwa and the resulting floods, NFWD, the Australian Volunteers Program (AVP), Cinnamon Life, and the Sasnaka Sansada Foundation came together in a unified effort to support the communities most affected.

On 7 December 2025, all four organisations joined hands in Kolonnawa—one of the worst-affected areas—to provide emergency assistance to persons with disabilities and their families. What was originally planned as a joint celebration for International Volunteer Day and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities was transformed into a coordinated relief initiative, reflecting our shared commitment to standing with communities during difficult times.

Together, our volunteers and staff organised a relief event at Terance N. De Silva Vidyalaya, Kolonnawa, a school that had served as a temporary shelter for families displaced by the floods. Recognising the need to prepare the space for students returning after the holidays, our teams worked collectively to clean and restore the entire school premises, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment.

Through this combined effort, we were able to support more than 500 peoples including persons with disabilities, distributing essential items such as:

• Dry rations

• Hygiene products

• Catheters

• Adult diapers

• Urine bags

• Other disability-related and essential supplies

We extend a heartfelt thank you to Nugegoda Pharmacy Pvt Ltd for donating vital health essentials, helping us reach even more individuals in need.

Special appreciation goes out to the representatives from each partner organisation who played a key role in this joint initiative:

• Charith Weerasekara, Country Program Manager, Australian Volunteers Program – Sri Lanka

• Sameera Ranasinghe, Director, Sustainability & Compliance, Cinnamon Life

• Hasitha Wijesundara, President, Sasnaka Sansada Foundation

This effort is a powerful reminder that true impact happens when we work together. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to all partners, volunteers, and supporters whose collaboration made this response possible.

Together, we continue to build a more inclusive, resilient, and compassionate community.

— Rasanjali Pathirage, Founder President/CEO