School Food Programme – 9

Kunuragama College, Mihintale

We are proud to announce that Kunuragama College, Mihintale is the 9th to be covered by the School Food Programme from Piku Pihi. Working here has been both challenging and rewarding. From the start, I realized the immense financial effort required to sustain our operations. My schoolmates often mention how we are constantly striving to make a difference.

Our dedicated coordinator, Teacher Shalika, plays a crucial role in managing the school. During my time here, I’ve witnessed firsthand the significant costs involved in running our school food program. Without the invaluable support of the mothers, none of this would be possible.

Recently, we received an unexpected request to help with a school food program to celebrate a child’s birthday on the 30th. The idea was to provide food, books, underwear, and storybooks for the children. It became evident that these children have many needs.

Thanks to contributions from generous donors, we were able to provide food, ice cream, storybooks, and underwear. However, the reality is that many children lack basic necessities like underwear, which can be quite expensive. A petticoat costs around 600, while a vest and undershirt together cost about 800. These expenses often limit the opportunities available to these children.

Coordinating these efforts is no small task. Often, I only know people by their WhatsApp names. When organizing such events, clear communication is key to ensuring everything runs smoothly.

One memorable moment was when a family travelled from Giriulla to Anuradhapura for their child’s birthday and visited the Sri Maha Bodhi. The joy we felt upon their arrival at the school was indescribable. Many children need multiple pairs of underwear for daily changes, but some only have one pair or come to school with wet clothes.

The accompanying photo shows a mother and her child. If you see this on Facebook, please tag them so everyone can see the different ways they contribute. I regret not thanking them or congratulating the little one personally.