Lionel Bandara | Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka

£5000 – Construction of the First Floor at Neth Savan Sarana School

by Lionel Bandara | Feb 10, 2026 | School-Projects

DABAL Begins Construction of the First Floor at Neth Savan Sarana School – Panchaliya, Galle

Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka (DABAL) is honoured to announce the commencement of a major development project at Neth Savan Sarana School in Panchaliya, Galle—the construction of the school’s first floor, a vital expansion that will uplift the learning environment for children with hearing and visual impairments.
A Project Built on Transparency, Care, and Collaboration
Over recent months, our team has worked diligently to ensure this project is grounded in integrity and proper governance. We have:
• Obtained multiple quotations from qualified contractors
• Followed recommendations and pricing guidelines provided by the Sri Lankan government
• Consulted with local representatives and community leaders
• Received approval and guidance from the school’s board and management
This careful process reflects DABAL’s commitment to responsible stewardship and long‑term sustainability in every project we undertake.
Why This Expansion Matters
Neth Savan Sarana School plays a crucial role in supporting children with disabilities in the Galle District. The new first floor will:
• Provide additional classroom space
• Improve accessibility and comfort
• Support the school’s growing student population
• Strengthen the educational foundation for some of the most vulnerable children in the region
This is more than a construction project—it is an investment in dignity, opportunity, and the future of every child who learns here.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our UK Members and Donors
We extend our deepest gratitude to our UK members and our frequent donors.
Because of your generosity, dedication, and trust, we are able to support projects like this. Every penny you give goes directly to the end user.
Your kindness travels across oceans and transforms lives in Sri Lanka. This project stands as a testament to your compassion.
Moving Forward
With all approvals and preparations complete, DABAL is now officially beginning construction. We will continue to work closely with local authorities, school leadership, and community partners to ensure smooth progress.
Regular updates, photos, and reports will be shared as the project advances, keeping our supporters fully informed and connected to the impact they are making.
We will share photos and updates once the construction of the first floor is completed, so our supporters can see the impact of their generosity come to life.

£170 – Providing Hope After the Floods – Thank You, Barbara

by Lionel Bandara | Jan 27, 2026 | Special Projects

Providing Hope After the Floods – Thank You, Barbara

We are deeply grateful to Barbara for her generous donation of £250, which has once again helped us support a family facing severe hardship in Sri Lanka. Of this contribution, £170 (SLR 70890.00) has already been used to carry out urgent repairs for a vulnerable household affected by the recent floods and landslides.

The disaster left lasting damage across many rural communities, including families connected to Monaragala Saubaghya School. One such family— a mother and her two young children—saw their water motor destroyed and part of their boundary wall collapse during the floods. With the mother already struggling to support her children, these losses placed an even greater burden on an already difficult situation.

Thanks to Barbara’s kindness, we were able to step in quickly to provide essential assistance:

Repairing the damaged water motor, restoring their access to clean water
Rebuilding the collapsed boundary wall, helping to secure and protect their home

We have shared photographs of the family and the condition of their home so supporters can see the real impact of this contribution.

Barbara, your ongoing commitment as one of our most compassionate donors continues to strengthen our mission. Every time you choose to support us, children in rural Sri Lankan schools—including those who are deaf and blind—receive direct and meaningful help. Your generosity brings real change and restores hope where it is needed most.

Mr. A. P. Somadasa, the visually impaired Principal of Monaragala Saubagya School, presents DABAL’s donation to a family impacted by the flood crisis, demonstrating true leadership and compassion.

Trustees Meet to Plan Events and Projects

by Lionel Bandara | Jan 10, 2026 | Committee Meetings

Trustees Meet to Plan Events and Projects

The trustees of DABAL gathered at the residence of our Treasurer, Ruvini Ranatunga, for an important planning meeting to discuss upcoming event preparations, ongoing Ditwa flood relief support, and several new projects aimed at enhancing facilities and opportunities for deaf and blind schools in Sri Lanka. This collaborative meeting not only helped align our goals and strengthen our commitment to the community, but also provided a joyful opportunity to celebrate the birthday of one of our founding members and our Event Secretary, Nadani Welikala, making the evening both productive and memorable.

Founder Member Beulah Deceased

by Lionel Bandara | Jan 4, 2026 | Obotuary-Notices

Tribute to Mrs. Beulah Mendis – Founder Member of DABAL

Ms. Florence Beulah Mendis was one of the original founder members of Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka (DABAL), and her influence remains deeply woven into the history and heart of our charity. From the earliest days of our organisation, she played a vital role in shaping our mission, ensuring that support for deaf and blind individuals was delivered with dignity, compassion, and consistency.

As Secretary, she served with remarkable dedication—meticulous in her work, unwavering in her commitment, and always driven by a genuine desire to uplift others. Her leadership and guidance helped build the strong foundation upon which DABAL continues its work today.

In her generosity and devotion to the cause, Ms. Mendis also allocated a legacy of £5,000 to support the continuation of our charitable efforts. This lasting gift is a powerful testament to her lifelong passion for helping those in need and her belief in the importance of our mission.

Her presence, wisdom, and kindness touched everyone who worked alongside her. Though various circumstances prevented some of our trustees from visiting her in recent years, a meaningful visit was shared a few years ago by Lionel, Ameera, and Nadani—memories we now hold especially close.

Ms. Florence Beulah Mendis will always be remembered with deep respect, gratitude, and affection. Her contribution to DABAL is immeasurable, and her legacy will continue to inspire our work for many years to come.

BUDS visit 2025 Annual Event.

by Lionel Bandara | Dec 13, 2025 | Events

DABAL Representatives Attend the BUDS Annual Event

Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka (DABAL) is pleased to share that our Vice Chairman Mr. Ranjith Chandrasena and our Chairman Mr. Lionel Bandara attended the annual event organised by the Batticaloa Underprivileged Development Society (BUDS).

Following the event, Mr. Ranjith conveyed warm congratulations to the BUDS Chair, Mrs. Muriet, and the organising committee for hosting a truly exceptional evening. Although several other DABAL members had planned to attend, many were called at short notice to support another important fundraising initiative in London on the same night, aimed at contributing to Sri Lanka’s national recovery following the recent devastation.

In his message, Mr. Ranjith highlighted several elements that made the BUDS event particularly impressive:

🌟 Splendid Venue & Excellent Arrangements

The hall was beautifully prepared, with smooth logistics and ample parking facilities that made the occasion welcoming for all attendees.

🍽️ Exceptional Culinary Experience

The food selection and presentation were described as “exceptionally good,” with special appreciation for the thoughtful variety provided for vegetarian guests. DABAL extends sincere thanks to the caterers, commending their outstanding service and recommending them for future events.

💃 Outstanding Bharatha Natyam Performances

The evening featured high‑quality Bharatha Natyam performances delivered by talented young dancers. Their dedication and artistry were recognised with great admiration, and DABAL conveys heartfelt congratulations to the performers.

🤝 Strengthening Partnership Between DABAL and BUDS

DABAL has long supported the Dharsanam School for the Visually Handicapped in the Batticaloa District and remains committed to addressing its ongoing needs, especially during this challenging period.

Mr. Ranjith also emphasised the importance of exploring collaborative opportunities between DABAL, BUDS, and other humanitarian organisations such as LETUSHELPNOW, which share strong global connections and have successfully delivered impactful projects in Batticaloa.

👏 Appreciation & Acknowledgement

DABAL extends sincere appreciation to the BUDS leadership and volunteers for organising a wonderful event at such a modest cost, demonstrating their dedication and commitment to the communities they serve.

We look forward to continued partnership and shared efforts in uplifting underprivileged communities across Sri Lanka.