Caritas Sri Lanka had the privilege of hosting Mr. Gerard Chitty and Mrs. Shivanthi Chitty, representatives of the Irasil Foundation, from February 20th to 25th, 2025. This partner visit took place across several key project locations supported by the Irasil Foundation, including Caritas Badulla, CODESEP – Galle, Caritas Kurunegala, Caritas Anuradhapura, Don Bosco School Mannar, and Caritas Mannar. The visit was an essential part of monitoring and evaluating the progress, impact, and sustainability of ongoing initiatives aimed at uplifting vulnerable communities.

The visit provided a unique opportunity for direct engagement between the Irasil Foundation team and the beneficiaries, government officers, religious leaders, and staff members involved in the projects. Throughout the visit, Mr. Gerard and Mrs. Shivanthi Chitty actively participated in discussions, gaining valuable insights into how the projects are benefiting the communities and the challenges faced in their implementation. The interaction fostered open communication about the successes, obstacles, and the lessons learned along the way, all of which are vital for future planning and improvement.

One of the key aspects of the visit was to assess the long-term sustainability of the initiatives funded by the Irasil Foundation. There was a strong emphasis on ensuring that these projects continue to have a lasting impact and can be sustained without continued external support. The discussions centered around not only evaluating the effectiveness of current projects but also exploring potential areas for future collaboration between Caritas Sri Lanka and the Irasil Foundation. Both parties expressed a shared commitment to finding innovative ways to meet the evolving needs of the communities and maximize the positive outcomes of the programs.

This visit was a significant step in strengthening the partnership between Caritas Sri Lanka and the Irasil Foundation. It reaffirmed both organizations’ dedication to promoting integral human development through sustainable initiatives that focus on the empowerment of marginalized communities. The discussions held during the visit were centered around ensuring that these development efforts continue to thrive, with a focus on community involvement, capacity building, and social inclusion.

The collaborative relationship between Caritas Sri Lanka and the Irasil Foundation is a testament to the power of partnerships in creating lasting change. By working together, both organizations are able to ensure that their collective efforts have a meaningful and enduring impact on the lives of those who need it most. This visit marked not just an assessment but a celebration of the shared journey towards empowering individuals and communities, fostering hope, and improving lives across Sri Lanka.