The children's home "ARUDPANY GIRLS HOME" in Sri Lanka

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In this report, we would like to offer a glimpse into our children's home, "ARUDPANY GIRLS HOME," in Batticalo, Sri Lanka. The home was founded in 1997 by Pastor Puvanendran. CDH Stephanus has been actively involved in this project since 2005, supporting it both financially and through prayer. Currently, under Pastor Puvanendran's leadership, 26 girls between the ages of 7 and 18 live at the home. Five women provide care and support for the girls. In addition, there are two male staff members responsible for laundry and transportation.

Daily routine

Life in the children's home is regulated during the week according to a clear schedule:

• 5:30 a.m.: Wake up, breakfast, preparation for school
• 7:10 a.m.: Children are picked up by the school bus
• 2:00 PM: Return from school, do daily chores
• 3:00 PM: Completing homework
• 5:30 p.m.: Free time
• 7:00 PM: Evening prayer
• 8:00 PM: Dinner

Due to the heavy school workload, some of the older girls have to do additional schoolwork after dinner.

On Saturdays, the caregivers and staff remain in a state of fasting and prayer for the children and the work at the children's home. On Sundays, all residents and staff gather for a joint church service.

During school holidays, trips to the beach are often undertaken.

Current situation

Last year, in 2021, a fire broke out in the care home, necessitating the replacement or renewal of the fuse boxes and the entire electrical system. The sewage system was also damaged in the fire and subsequently repaired. Thankfully, no one was injured. The costs incurred as a result of the fire, amounting to approximately €10,000, were covered by CDH Stephanus.

Sri Lanka is currently experiencing a deep economic crisis. Food and everyday necessities have become very expensive and are sometimes unavailable. Fuel prices have also risen significantly. Furthermore, electricity access is restricted daily, meaning our brothers and sisters only have access to electricity between 8:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

The children's home is visited periodically by government officials to ensure compliance with minimum legal requirements. Following several inspections in recent months, government officials expressed satisfaction, although some necessary renovations on the second floor of the building still need to be completed.

Prayer necessary

It has been some time since our last visit to the children's home by CDH Stephanus. We were last able to visit in early 2020. In spring 2023, we are planning a visit with a small group to see the situation on the ground for ourselves. The current economic crisis is making this difficult. Please support the work at the children's home and the planned trip in your prayers. Donations are gratefully accepted with the reference "Children's Home Sri Lanka".

Matthias Krüger
CDH Stephanus

More information about the project and the opportunity to donate:
https://cdh-stephanus.org/sri-lanka/