Sahanoda_Foundation

SAHANODA FOUNDATION

Reg. No. DM/S:S/06/23 S/-4821	Chairperson
	Ven. Haputale Pannarama.
	Shasthrananda Pirivena,
	Sir Baron Jayatilaka Mawatha,
	Karagampitiya,
	Dehiwala.
	Tel. (00 941) 712482, 712199

National Scheme for the welfare of families of persons serving in the Armed Forces

Pilot Project – Dehiwala-Mt. Lavinia, Ratmalana Divisional Secretariat area

1. Introduction

The purpose of this scheme is to create an awareness, among the general population, of the courage and dedication displayed by the members of the armed services in their efforts to safeguard the territorial integrity and the unitary state of the country, and to provide for the welfare of their families.

Those serving in the armed forces are today the focus of attention, as the task of extinguishing the fires of terrorism and restoring peace to the country rests with them. There are many who have sacrificed their lives, and others who have suffered physical and mental disabilities in the course of their duties. Some who have deserted the forces, and the need for additional recruits, are other problems facing the country.

The Sahanoda Foundation has assumed responsibility for the planning and implementation of a scheme to deal with these problems. In this task, it appeals for assistance and the involvement of individuals and organisations such as state institutions, national and foreign non-governmental organisations, the business community etc.

2. Objectives

Improving the financial situation of the target groups.
Safeguarding the physical and mental well-being of the target groups.
Improving the social environment of the target groups.
Creating a social security system for the target groups.

Improving the financial situation of the target groups

The introduction of a lottery for the generation of funds. These funds would be used for dealing with situations such as accidents, hospitalisation, the need for specialist medical treatment abroad etc.
The provision of land and the construction of houses for the families of service personnel who have no permanent abode or live in rented housing.
A monthly payment of Rs. 2000 to be made to the families of service personnel who suffer physical or mental incapacitation while on active duty.
A grant of Rs. 10,000 to be made for the funeral expenses of service personnel who lose their lives while on active duty.

Safeguarding the physical and mental well-being of the target groups

Grant priority in obtaining goods and services from state institutions.
Grant priority in receiving medical assistance.
Admission of children to good schools.
Grant scholarships to children without taking income levels into consideration.
Provision of water, electricity and telephone connections on easy payment schemes.
Conduct religious activities monthly for the purpose of blessing and bestowing merit on personnel on active duty, with the involvement of their families. These will take the form of Bodhi Poojas, Dhamma sermons, chanting of Pirith and alms-giving ceremonies (in the case of Buddhists), and appropriate activities in the case of followers of other religions.
Speeches and lectures to be given in schools on the theme of the value of, and the sacrifices made by, members of the armed services.
Annual festivals to be held in schools in honour of personnel serving in the armed forces. Essay and oratorical contests on the same theme to be held.

Improving the social environment of the target groups

Counselling to be provided to families of armed services personnel, as required.
According recognition and respect to families of armed services personnel.
Involving family members of armed services personnel in all social activities in their neighbourhoods.

Creating a social security system for the target groups

Compile a data base on families of armed services personnel.
Encourage all children of school-going age who are not attending school, to do so.
Enrolment in vocational training courses for all who complete school.
Work towards obtaining employment in the state and private sectors, as well as other countries, for family members of armed services personnel. Assist in self-employment projects.
Introduction, through state banks, of a savings scheme for members of the armed services and their families. Encourage the habit of saving among same.
Introduction of an insurance scheme for families of armed services personnel.

The project will be subjected to constant review, and changes and improvements will be made as appropriate