Community Health Program with The Aram Initiative Brings Vital Care to Rural Villages

As part of our Health Enhancement Initiative, Vanni Hope recently completed a far-reaching Community Health Program in the rural villages of Andankulam and Kaddumurivu in the Batticaloa District, supported by dedicated young adults from The Aram Initiative, part of the United Kingdom’s Sri Lankan diaspora.

The program was delivered in close partnership with medical staff and field health workers from the Divisional Hospital – Kathiravely, ensuring families in remote areas received the support they rarely have access to.

Screening and Awareness for Healthier Communities

The Community Health Program focused on providing basic health screenings for elders and families who often cannot afford or access regular check-ups. In total, 175 elders benefited directly from these screenings and awareness sessions, as planned in the original project design.

Screenings included checks for blood pressure, blood sugar, BMI, vision and overall wellbeing. Many of the elders live with untreated conditions, so early detection and practical advice are vital to prevent more serious complications. Where necessary, participants were advised to follow up with their local hospital for further care.

For many households in these villages, this was the first structured health check they have had in years, giving them a clearer understanding of their health status and how to stay well.

Life Saving First Aid and CPR Training

Alongside the health checks, young adults from The Aram Initiative, including medical students, ran a practical training session covering basic first aid and CPR. This session helps community members feel more confident in responding to emergencies, stabilising patients and providing care while waiting for medical help to arrive.

By teaching simple life-saving steps, this training empowers local people to care for loved ones and neighbours when it matters most.

Local Partnerships and Global Connections

This project highlights the impact that partnerships can have in bridging healthcare gaps. The Divisional Hospital – Kathiravely supported screenings, provided local field staff, and helped families understand how to continue their care through existing health services.

The young adults of The Aram Initiative, many of whom were born and raised in the UK, travelled back to Sri Lanka to reconnect with the communities their families came from. Their dedication shows how the global Sri Lankan community can stay connected and deliver meaningful, practical support where it is needed most.

Small Actions with a Lasting Impact

Through this program, Vanni Hope and its partners have provided more than just health checks. We have raised awareness, encouraged healthy habits and strengthened local capacity to respond to emergencies. Together, these small actions make communities stronger, safer and healthier.

We thank The Aram Initiative for giving their time and knowledge, and the staff at Divisional Hospital Kathiravely for working alongside us to reach every household that needed care.

Our commitment remains strong: to bridge the rural healthcare gap, one community at a time.

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