For several years Extra Cover has been helping a boy called Bishan who, as well as learning difficulties. has significant bowel problems which still require the daily attention of his mother. Thanks to the efforts of Bishan’s parents, the Sri Lankan government has agreed to partly fund a new house for him – one in which he can have his own room (Bishan is now 14) and where the family can enjoy proper toilet facilities.
In true Sri Lankan style, the government policy is to pay for the foundations and the walls of a house, but not pay for the roof. Sunil, Bishan’s father, who works at Extra Cover’s Vocational Trade Centre in Wanduramba, has bought and prepared timber for the roof, but now needs Rs400,000 (or about £1250) to have it assembled. In another bureaucratic twist, on completion of the roof, the government will then reimburse a third of its cost – monies which can then be used for windows, floors and other fixings.
The new house will be a life-line for Bishan and his family and Extra Cover is delighted to help.
