A project recurring for the fourth time, “Humanity ‘24”, was successfully organized this year by the Grade 09 batch of the Leo Club of Royal College and the Red Cross Society of Royal College. The project, which took place during the sinhala and tamil new year, a time of joy, giving, and cultural celebration.

This year, Humanity continued its tradition of focusing on aiding the most vulnerable members of our society. It was a community service initiative that brought together the combined efforts and resources of both the Leo Club and the Red Cross Society. Through careful planning and collaboration, food parcels were distributed to beggars and frontline workers in various areas of Colombo, ensuring they too could partake in the Avurudu spirit despite the hardships they face daily.

The primary objective of the project was to spread kindness, alleviate struggles, and bring a sense of joy and celebration to those who are often overlooked during festive seasons. By distributing food parcels, the project not only met the immediate needs of those most in need but also brought smiles and hope to countless individuals and families.

The Leo Club and the Red Cross Society were able to leverage their combined strengths, resources, and expertise to ensure the success of this initiative. The dedication of the Grade 09 batch, coupled with the support of senior members and advisors, played a pivotal role in making this year's project even more impactful than in previous years.

Humanity stands as a testament to the commitment of the students of Royal College to uplift their community. By addressing the needs of the less fortunate during the Avurudu season, the project left a lasting mark, embodying the true spirit of giving and togetherness that the festival represents.

• Provide the homeless with trusted food items: This objective was effectively met as over 300 food packets, each containing five trusted food items, were distributed. The preparation and packaging ensured that all items were fresh, hygienic, and safe for consumption, addressing the immediate nutritional needs of the recipients while fostering trust.
• Encourage a sense of community and enhance the closeness between both parties: This objective was achieved through the collaborative efforts of the Leo Club of Royal College and the Red Cross Society of Royal College. The New Year celebration event, held with the younger members of the club, provided an opportunity for meaningful interaction between the volunteers and the community, fostering mutual respect and a sense of togetherness during the Avurudu season.
• Reach: This year, we catered to over 300 individuals, a 15% increase from around 260 individuals last year, signifying greater community impact.
• Volunteers: A total of 40 volunteers participated actively, up from 32 last year, reflecting increased enthusiasm and engagement within the club.

Venues

• Royal College, Town Hall, Maradana, Pitakotuwa
• Royal College, Duplication Road, Bambalapitiya, Wellawatta
• Royal College, Police Park, Thimbirigasyaya, Havelock Road, Kirulapone

Food Items

• Oil Cakes - 200
• Kokis - 200
• Cake pieces - 200
• Banana - 210

Project Chairman: Disinu Weerasinghe

Project Committee:

• Nimitha Sarathchandra
• Hiruka Gunaratne
• Hiruja Gunaratne
• Shahen Dedduwakumara
• Nethuka Sadev Gunathilake
• Buvindu Walpita
• Lasath Silva
• Omiru Perera
• Hesandu Wijesiriwardane
• Seniru Himanjana