A series of grand events took place to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Caritas Sri Lanka (CSL)in Kandy on June 16, 2008 at Caritas Kandy – SETIK centre in collaboration with CSL -  SEDEC and Caritas USA /Catholic Relief Services (CRS)

The chief guest for the event was Rt. Rev. Dr. Bishops Vianney, Rev. Fr. Damian Fernando, National Director of CSL – SEDEC Anne Bousquet and Martin Larrecochea  CRS from participated for this event.

Keys to five new houses which were constructed by CSL were handed over at the occasion.  CRS also supported to renovate 18 line rooms in Matale and provide 218 water and sanitation facilities.

The Animation Unit of Caritas Kandy – SETIK also organized a trade fair and exhibition to mark the 40th anniversary of CSL . Self help groups who received SIYB training displayed products such as hand made garments, home garden products, and other sweet meats in 30 stalls. “Although some of these entrepreneurs are beginners they are well established,” says Fr. George speaking on the importance of these trade fairs. The objective of these trade fairs is to give exposure to these small traders and entrepreneurs to promote their business and create market linkages

Also at the occasion a book titled, “ The travails of Sri Lankan Migrants,” a study report by Diocesan Director, Rev. Fr. George Sigamoney was launched.  The first copy of this book was handed over to Bishop Vianney Fernando. This book gives an overview of the plight of Sri- Lankan migrants.  

Rt. Rev. Dr. Bishop Vianney in his welcome address stressed that “we ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.”

The highlight of the day was a preview of a documentary drama titled,“ The house of a Arabian child” which highlighted  real stories of migrants.  Prizes were also awarded for the best agricultural farmer and for art competitions held in school on themes related to child labour, migration of women and protecting resources.