your family update
You Backed them and things began to change
Christine Muttiah
Donor
When we met Ishara, she was sitting cross-legged on the floor of her small home, stitching a bag with careful, tired hands. At just 34, she has already carried more loss than most—her husband’s passing left her alone to raise three young children. Now, every day is a quiet fight to keep food on the table and dreams alive.
Her youngest clung to her side, making it nearly impossible to take work outside the home. So Ishara tries to earn what she can by making bags, but without enough funds to grow her business, the orders are small and the income even smaller. Still, her eyes soften whenever she speaks of her children’s education—because no matter how heavy the struggle, she refuses to let their future slip away.
We’ve captured their voice so you can hear their story.
Can you tell me a few details about yourself?
My name is W.M. Ishara Sewwandhi Weerasekara. My husband passed away one and a half years ago due to high blood pressure. I have three children: my oldest is a daughter, 13 years old; my second child, a son, is 10 years old; and my youngest son is just 3 years old. We live on Galewala Road, Galnewa(Village Name).
What are you currently doing?
I am now earning an income from sewing and producing cartoon bags. This work is helping me support my family.
Did you start making cartoon bags before being involved with Palmera, or did it begin later?
I initially started making them on a very small scale. However, the Palmera project supported me immensely. They provided significant assistance to purchase materials for making the bags and guided me toward success – trainings and a lot of support.
Can you please share how the schooling of your children is going?
My oldest daughter passed the scholarship exam (Grade 5 exam). (note – this is quite difficult for children especially in rural contexts and provided children with access to better schools and in some instances one off funding support). My second son also faced the scholarship exams this time. My youngest, being only 3 years old, is still staying at home with me.
How has the Palmera project benefited you?
Initially, I received dry rations. Then I received seed packs. Later, they helped me purchase materials for my small bag business. They Also gave school bags and shoes for my children.
Because of These supports, have you seen any changes in your life? What do you think?
Yes, Before, I didn’t have a steady job. I was making bags on a very small scale, and it was a real struggle to raise my three children, educate them, and provide them with meals. The income from my business wasn’t enough to cover our daily expenses, and I couldn’t reinvest in my business All the income I earned was spent on household needs, But after Palmera stepped in, they helped me stabilize and expand my bag production. That has been a big support to me.
Ishara, What are your plans for the future with the support you’ve received from Palmera?
For my bag production, I am planning to purchase another sewing machine. That is my next step toward expanding the business and making it more efficient. Additionally, my top priority is my children’s education.
Note: We provide business planning and business literacy so that they can continue to grow and manage their businesses.
Sir Christine has supported you. What would you like to say to her?
I am truly grateful to him from the bottom of my heart for helping vulnerable people like us. May he receive more blessings, merits, strength and success in his life. From the bottom of my heart, I want to say thank you.
Thank you so much.