The Sri Lanka Hilfe Abensberg e.V. is the project close to the heart of our long-time friend Hedlen Zirngibl. For many years, she has been incredibly committed to helping the people of Sri Lanka. We continuously support this commitment with our social fund - this year, we have made € 1,000 available for this purpose.
The funds were crucial for a project that shows how a dream can turn into tangible life prospects:
Eight years ago, the association acquired a plot of land in Negombo with the aim of building an afternoon school there. For a long time, official approvals delayed the implementation. During this difficult phase, the Lions of Negombo stepped in and provided a suitable plot of land with buildings. After the conversion, the school was able to open.
The decision was then made 18 months ago to build a semi-detached house on this site. One family had been the focus for a long time: the father, a carpenter, had helped with the construction of the school with great dedication and his children regularly attended lessons. He worked tirelessly on the construction of the houses, taught materials and invested every spare minute in the project.
The second family came about almost by chance: One morning, a young mother stood in front of Hedlen in despair. She could no longer afford the rent for her small accommodation. When they saw her home - a tiny room of 12 square meters with no windows, an outdoor shower between plastic sheets - it was immediately clear: this family should move in. Despite the adverse circumstances, they lived with dignity, everything was clean and tidy.
The move in was soon a done deal. But when asked about furniture, the only answer was a quiet "no". There was only one place to sleep. It was precisely at this moment that Hedlen was able to report that we had provided €1,000 from the Gammel Engineering social fund. Together with other private donations, the money was enough to finance all the basic equipment: a double bed, three children's beds with mattresses, a seating area and a small table.
The reaction of the families was overwhelming - tears, laughter and great gratitude accompanied this moment. Now both families have a home where their children can learn, play and grow up. From 2027, they will pay €10 a month into a savings account - a small step towards independence.
The words of the young mother sum it all up vividly:
"I was in the dark, then the light came. I will never forget it for the rest of my life."
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