TORRENTIAL RAINS AND FLOOD IN WATTALA
As a result of the torrential rains which occurred during the past few weeks, many of the residents in Wattala were faced with tremendous difficulties. Most of the houses in this region were under water. The residents of the area were rendered homeless due to this fact. They could not cook in their homes or even stay in them. Some of the families had made make shift levels in their houses by putting planks on chairs and staying on them. Their meals were supplied through kind residents and hotel owners who were not affected by the floods.
CHILDREN’S HEALTH AFFECTED
A needs assessment done by our children’s worker, in this area revealed that many of the children and parents were suffering from different skin ailments, and chest colds and coughs. Since their basic needs, such as food and water were being supplied to them by other agencies, we identified their critical need as medical care. Many of the parents expressed concern about their children’s health and the fact that they were not in a position to seek the needed help.
THE MEDICAL CAMP
With this in mind, the Change Makers Club in Wattala along with ADT organized a medical camp for
the Wattala area on the 4th of October 2006. With the help of many organizations such as the Navajeevana Health Care Centre, Health Care Christian Centre and Community Concern Society we were able to gather up a team of doctors and collect the needed medicines. The medical camp was held at the Palliyawatta Church Grounds from 1pm to 5pm. Though we had a rough start and delays, the programme on a whole was a great success. We started the clinic only around 3pm due to delays in picking up the medicines and the doctors.
THE PEOPLE TURN UP
When we reached the Church, there were many people all lined up and in anticipation. Though most of the people had left due to the delays, they returned once word had spread that the camp was started. Amongst those who came to receive to medical help, 90% were women and children.
CHANGEMAKERS CLUB VOLUNTEERS HELP US
While they waited to be treated, our team took time to speak to the mothers and the children. They shared with us how most of their homes were still under water and with the risk of more flooding. The children who attend our Change Makers Club in Wattala also participated in this programme. The Club Volunteers helped us set up the camp and purchase refreshments for the attendees and the doctors. They were also instrumental in getting needed drugs that we were not able to purchase before.
Five and a half hours later (at 8.30 P.M) and after more than 150 patients were treated by the Doctors, the medical camp came to a close.
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