Help Don Bosco orphan home in Maggona, Sri Lanka

Hello, compassionate supporters!

We are Steven (38) and Mieke (61), coming to you from the Netherlands with a heartfelt mission. Our paths converged at Don Bosco boys' home in Maggona, Sri Lanka, in 2012—a safe haven for boys aged 4 to 18.

Steven: In October 2011, my father took me to Sri Lanka and Don Bosco to show me the incredible work he and my mother had been doing since 1996. That trip changed my perspective on life and made me want to help as well.

Mieke: In 2010, during a holiday, I fell in love with the country and its people. I felt a strong desire to make a positive impact on the lives of these children. In 2011, I made my first visit to Don Bosco boys' home, and since then, I have returned every year. My goal is to create a better, brighter, and more joyful life for these boys and provide them with the love they so desperately need.

In May 2023, I, Steven, visited Mieke at the boys' home and was shocked by the conditions of the welfare center located next to the orphanage. The brotherhood lacks the necessary funds for maintenance. Consequently, it has fallen into disrepair. This welfare center serves as the accommodation for volunteers who stay and assist the orphanage, providing them with a small income. However, the substandard conditions make it difficult for anyone to stay there.

Driven by a shared determination, we, Steven and Mieke, aim to turn this situation around. However, the cost of necessary repairs and ongoing maintenance is beyond our means, which is why we humbly turn to you for assistance.

The funds we raise will be primarily allocated towards renovating and revitalizing the welfare center. To achieve this, we estimate a minimum requirement of 50,000 euros to be able to start.

*Our plan includes:*

•*Starting Roof Replacement:*

We aim to commence the replacement of the deteriorating roof, ensuring the safety and comfort of those who stay in the center.

•*Repairing or Replacing Damaged Framework:*

Our efforts will focus on repairing or replacing the compromised structural elements, ensuring the building's stability and longevity.

•*Restoring and Modernizing Rooms and Bathrooms:*

We plan to restore and modernize all rooms and bathrooms, creating a welcoming and functional environment for the volunteers and backpackers.

•*Addressing Damaged Plasterwork:*

The damaged plasterwork will be repaired to restore the center's aesthetics and integrity.

•*Interior and Exterior Painting:*

We are determined to refresh the interior and exterior through painting, giving the center a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.

Moreover, the welfare center's room rentals for volunteers and backpackers, along with hosting local weddings, directly contribute to the boys' well-being, covering essential expenses such as clothing, educational supplies, and medical care.

Join us in supporting Don Bosco and be part of this meaningful endeavor. If you would like more information, photos, or have a personal conversation via phone or video call, please send us a message, and we will respond promptly.

Together, we can create a brighter future for these deserving boys. Thank you for your kindness and generosity.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Mieke and Steven