“ We can't even dream to build a home like this in our lifetime “ said a beneficiary Ms. Disna Chrishanthi at the ceremonial opening of houses in Chilaw.

Caritas Chilaw – Jansaviya in Collanoration with Caritas Italiana the facilitating partner of Caritas Chilaw Janasaviya and Caritas Sri Lanka – SEDEC the National Centre, handed over houses to 7 families at Wellamankaraya, Nainamaduwa on the 27 th of February 2007.

Seven new houses were symbolically opened by the guests of honour. The guests of honour present were, The most Rev. Dr.Mario Zenari, Apostolic Nuncio, The Most Rev. Dr. Luigi Bressan, Archbishop of Trento and his Caritas delegation of Northern East of Italy representing 15 dioceses in Trento . and his Caritas delegation of Northern East representing 15 dioceses. Among the local clergy, Former Bishop of Chilaw Most Rev. Dr. Frank Marcus Fernando and Most Rev Dr. Valence Mendis, the Bishop of Chilaw were present. Rev. Fr. Damian Fernando, National Director of Caritas Sri Lanka – SEDEC and Fr. Edward Karunayake, Director Caritas Chilaw – Jansaviya SEDEC were among those present. Local and International Staff of Caritas Sri Lanka and Mr. Trevin Fernando with other government officials also participated at this ceremony.

Each house was fully furnished and was provided with basic facilities such as water electricity and furniture. A community centre was also provided at the same premises. A total of 10 perches was utilized to build these seven houses. Each house cost Rs. 8.19 Lakhs.

This housing project was funded by Caritas Italiana and Caritas Hungary “ A sum of Rupees 600 Lakhs was provided for the entire project ” said Fr. Edward Karunayake, Director – Jansaviya SEDEC,in his welcome address. “The government could only provide the land, but you have received a great gift from Caritas “said Mr. Trevin Fernando, Government representative of Wennapuwa.

“Two years ago a strong wave of destruction destroyed most of Sri Lanka , but a stronger wave of solidarity emerged from it.” said the most Rev. Dr. Mario Zenari, Apostolic Nuncio addressing the gathering.

“ Two year ago, Tsunami ravaged coastal communities. I immediately requested Caritas Italiana to help those affected in the Chilaw diocese. “ Said Fr. Damian Fernando, National Director of Caritas Sri Lanka - SEDEC “ Caritas Sri Lanka has built 6866 temporary, 4342 permanent houses and 2296 permanent houses have been scheduled to be handed over in March 2007.” We have replaced lost assets in fisheries, agricultural, and other small business sectors around the country. We have distributed 3446 Nets, 1126 boats and 1072 engines for the fisheries sector while 207 water pumps have been distributed to the agricultural sector. Psychosocial and educational support also was given especially to the orphaned and the destitute.” He further stated.

Cash gifts were also distributed at the ceremony to animation groups to purchase preschool equipment. A colourful Cultural show was also organized at the days celebration.