## Hela Sarana ## **U.K. Registered Charity Number: 1093504** 18 Haydon Road, Dagenham, Essex, RM8 2PA secretary@helasarana.org www.helasarana.org ## **Minutes of the 29[th ] Anniversary Annual General meeting of Hela Sarana** held on Saturday, 1st November 2025, from 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM, at Murray Hall, 106 Bonners Lane, Loughton, IG10 3SB ## **Agenda** - General Housekeeping matters - Welcome – Mr. Jayantha Silva -President - One minute silence to remember the departed HS Members - Minutes of the 28th[th ] AGM –Dr Jayantha Perera - Adoption of the minutes - Secretary's report- Dr. Jayantha Perera - Treasurer's report- Mr. Methsiri Wijeratne - Adoption of the Treasurer’s report - Election of the new committee- - Interim Chairman- Mr. Haritha Jayawardena - Education Grant committee report- Mrs. Irie Perera - Breakfast Project-Dr. Saman Perera - Methsevana -Dr. Saman Perera - Fund raising by supporters-Anil and Alex-video - Buffet dinner - Live Jazz experience by Ruchi Perera and Onelli Ranasinghe - New project Proposals for 2025-2026-Dr Saman Perera - **Keynote address** by His Excellency Mr. Nimal Senadheera **,** BA, MA, MPA, MSc High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the United Kingdom - Vote of Thanks Mr. Jayantha Silva, President of Hela Sarana, who joined by Zoom from Sri Lanka welcomed the distinguished guests, representatives of Sri Lankan professional and charitable organisations, Hela Sarana members, and their guests. He invited the audience to observe a minute of silence in memory of departed Hela Sarana colleagues and friends. He paid tribute to former Executive Committee members for their dedicated service, leadership, and lasting contributions, and expressed gratitude for their enduring legacy, which continues to inspire Hela Sarana's mission and values. Dr Jayantha Perera General Secretary of Hela Sarana presented the minutes of the 28th AGM to the members and guests. Executive Summary The Hela Sarana Annual General Meeting 2024-2025 brought together members, distinguished guests, and representatives of Sri Lankan professional and charitable organisations to review the charity's achievements, celebrate its impact, and set priorities for the year ahead. Proceedings commenced with a tribute to former Executive Committee members whose dedicated service and lasting contributions continue to inspire Hela Sarana's mission. During the year, Hela Sarana strengthened its commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable communities through a diverse portfolio of humanitarian initiatives focused on healthcare, education, and community welfare. Key achievements included funding the shipment of medical equipment to hospitals across Sri Lanka in collaboration with the Hospital Services Council Charity, supporting professional development in Paediatric disability care through specialist clinical training, and providing emergency assistance to families experiencing hardship. The Treasurer presented the independently audited financial statements for the 2024–2025 financial year, which were unanimously adopted by the membership. Following the resignation of the outgoing Executive Committee, a new committee was elected unopposed, with Mr. Jayantha Silvare-elected as President. Hela Sarana's three flagship Portfolio Projects continued to provide sustainable, long-term support to vulnerable communities. The Education Grants Programme awarded scholarships to 70 students, enabling disadvantaged young people to pursue secondary and university education. The Anuradhapura Hospital Breakfast Programme, now entering its 13th year, continued to provide daily nutritious breakfasts and bottled water to patients undergoing renal dialysis treatment. The Methsevana Special Needs School and Vocational Training Centre continued to provide education, vocational skills training, and transport support for children and young adults with learning disabilities. Together, these established programmes demonstrate Hela Sarana's commitment to sustainable investment in healthcare, education, and social wellbeing, delivering lasting benefits to individuals, families, and communities across Sri Lanka. The keynote address by Professor Samanmali Sumanasena highlighted the challenges and opportunities in Paediatric disability services in Sri Lanka and reinforced the importance of collaborative partnerships in improving outcomes for children with learning and developmental disabilities. Looking ahead, Hela Sarana reaffirmed its commitment to expanding its humanitarian impact through an ambitious programme of work for 2025-2026. Strategic priorities include fundraising for dialysis machines, extending educational support for tsunami-affected and disadvantaged children, implementing sanitation and hygiene projects in rural communities, strengthening programmes for older people, and fostering greater collaboration with Sri Lankan charitable organisations in the United Kingdom to maximise the collective impact of future humanitarian initiatives. The meeting concluded with sincere appreciation to the Executive Committee, volunteers, project teams in Sri Lanka, partners, and donors whose dedication and generosity continue to make Hela Sarana's work possible. Their collective commitment remains the foundation of the charity's mission to deliver sustainable, life-changing support to communities across Sri Lanka. The minutes were unanimously adapted by the membership. Dr. Jayantha Perera then went on to present the secretaries report for the year 2024-2025. Hela Sarana's three flagship Portfolio Projects continued to provide sustainable, long-term support to vulnerable communities and remain at the heart of the charity's mission. The **Education Grants Programme** continued to award scholarships to 70 students, enabling disadvantaged young people to pursue secondary and university education and build brighter futures. **The Anuradhapura Hospital Breakfast Programme** , now entering its 14th year, continued to provide a nutritious daily breakfast and bottled water to patients undergoing life-saving renal dialysis treatment, improving their wellbeing throughout the course of treatment. **The Methsevana Special Needs School and Vocational Training Centre** continued to provide education, vocational skills training, and transport support for children and young adults with learning disabilities, promoting independence, inclusion, and enhanced quality of life. Together, these long-standing programmes demonstrate Hela Sarana's commitment to sustainable investment in healthcare, education, and social wellbeing, creating lasting benefits for individuals, families, and communities across Sri Lanka. Dr Jayantha Perera mentioned that Mrs. Irie Perera will present the updates on the Educational Grants (Scholarship programme), Dr Saman Perera the breakfast project and Methsevana Special needs school and vocational training programme. Dr. Jayantha Perera presented the Key 2024-2025 AGM year projects with visual images and corroborative data. ## **2024–2025 at a Glance** - **11 governance policies and procedures** developed and implemented, strengthening governance, accountability, and compliance with Charity Commission guidance. - **2 dialysis machines** installed at the **new Anamaduwa Dialysis Unit** , supporting lifesaving treatment for patients with chronic kidney disease. - **£2,238** contributed towards a **£11,586 (Rs. 4.7 million) ultrasound scanner for** the **Karapitiya Hospital Cancer Unit** through a partnership with **Teardrop Trust.** - **83 children and tsunami-affected families** supported through the **20th Anniversary Tsunami Commemoration Project,** with assistance valued at **Rs. 438,505** . - **30 flood-affected families** in Ampara received emergency relief through a donation of **Rs. 240,000** , complemented by a further **£500** contribution for flood relief in Northern Sri Lanka. - **60 students** received **school bags and shoe vouchers,** while **over 300 children** b **enefited from educational materials and learning support in Gampola.** - **£1,347** invested in **digital learning resources for Thissapura Primary School** , including computer, printing, and photocopying facilities. - **Rs. 376,771** generated by the **Solar Village Project** since its launch, creating **sustainable income for school improvement and community development.** - **10th annual Scores for Schools Golf Event** , organised by **Alex McHardy** and **Anil Kurukulasooriya** , raised **over £1,300** , including Gift Aid, in support of Hela Sarana's humanitarian programmes. Mr. Methsiri Wijeratna presented the **Treasurer’s report** He shared the independent examiners report to the Trustees and Unaudited financial statements for the Year ended 30[th] September 2025 for Hela Sarana done By Actar Ellis Brown & co The detailed report included the Total income for year 2024-2025= £38,888.24 and the total expenditure£ 45,495.55 Net expenditure over income 2024-2025 -£6607.31 The Treasurer’s report was unanimously approved. ## **Election of Office bearers** - Election of the new committee- - Interim Chairman- Mr. Haritha Jayawardena presided election of the new Committee - - - - - Treasurer Mr. Methsiri Wijeratna - - General Committee Members Mr. Leslie Dep, Mr. Asoka Bollegala, Mrs. Irie Perera Dr. Jeevani Jayawardena, Dr. Kanthi Jayawardena, Mr. Aruna Perera Dr. Palitha Serasinghe, Mr. Nevomal Fernando, Mr. Saman Ranasinghe. Mr. Janaka Siriwardena ## **Scholarship Programme – Summary** Mrs. Irie Perera on behalf of the Education Grants Committee, presented the 2024–2025 Scholarship Programme update to the members and attendees. The presentation highlighted inspiring messages from former scholarship recipients who have successfully completed their graduate and postgraduate studies. Many shared that, without the support of the Hela Sarana Scholarship from their primary school years, they would not have achieved their educational goals. Their stories reflected the programme's mission of **"turning walls into doors through education"** by helping children and young people reach their full potential. The UK Education Grants Committee—Mrs. Irie Perera Dr. Jeevanee Jayawardena, and Dr. Kanthi Jayawardana—works closely with the Sri Lanka team, comprising Mr. Lakshman Wijesekara (Administrator), Mr. Chandrasiri Liyanage, and Mrs. Devaki Gomez. Together, they carefully assess applications, monitor recipients' progress, provide timely support, and allocate students to the appropriate funding tiers based on their educational needs. During the reporting year, monthly grants were **Rs. 5,000** for university students, **Rs. 3,000** for Advanced Level students, and **Rs. 2,000** for secondary and pre-Ordinary Level students. This grant amounts have since been increased to better meet rising educational costs. With growing demand from deserving students, the Committee emphasised the need for additional donors to sustain and expand the programme. It is also modernising its recruitment and administration processes to better meet the needs of the digital age. Mrs. Irie Perera expressed her sincere appreciation to the Sri Lanka Committee for its unwavering dedication and outstanding service in administering the Scholarship Programme. She also conveyed her heartfelt gratitude to the donors and well-wishers whose generosity has sustained the programme since 2004, enabling countless children and young people to pursue their educational aspirations. As the need for support continues to grow, she warmly invited others to join this life-changing initiative. Through continued generosity and shared commitment, the Hela Sarana Scholarship Programme will continue to transform lives, empower future generations, and ensure that education remains the key that opens doors to opportunity and hope. ## **Breakfast Project for Renal Dialysis Patients** Dr. Saman Perera presented the 2024–2025 Breakfast Project report on behalf of the Breakfast Project Committee. Now in its 14th year, the project continues to provide a daily nutritious breakfast and drinking water to 30–40 renal dialysis patients, offering essential nourishment and comfort during their treatment. Mr. Jayantha Silva, Ms. Sayuri Serasinghe, Mr. Palitha Serasinghe, and Dr. Saman Perera were acknowledged for their dedication in securing donor support. Despite Sri Lanka's economic challenges, the daily cost of the programme has increased from £20 to £23, while maintaining the quality of the meals. Plans to introduce a second meal for afternoon dialysis patients have been deferred due to insufficient funding. Dr. Saman Perera thanked the donors for their continued generosity and appealed for additional support to sustain and expand this vital service, which continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of dialysis patients. ## **Methsevana Special Needs school and Vocational Training programme** Dr. Saman Perera shared an update following his recent visit, highlighting the vital role that funding for teachers and student transport plays in ensuring the programmes continued success. He extended his heartfelt thanks to the Hela Sarana Committee for its steadfast support, recognising that its continued generosity is instrumental in creating lasting educational opportunities and a brighter future for the students. - **Keynote address** by His Excellency Mr. Nimal Senadheera **,** BA, MA, MPA, MSc High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the United Kingdom - The High Commissioner Mr Nimal Senadheera sent his apologies that he cannot attend the AGM due to an official commitment. Minister Counsellor **Brigadier Dilantha Fernando** delivering his remarks on behalf of His Excellency, affirmed that Hela Sarana naturally stands as a pillar of diaspora-led support—an organization whose humanitarian work continues to strengthen Sri Lanka’s international partnerships and community resilience. He highlighted Hela Sarana’s **three decades of uninterrupted service** , its **island-wide reach** , and its **non-political, inclusive ethos** , noting the charity’s strong **alignment with national development priorities** . He further stated that the High Commission regards Hela Sarana as a **trusted and enduring partner in national welfare** , a **reflection of the strength of the Sri Lankan diaspora** , and a **reliable contributor during times of crisis** , whose sustained commitments meaningfully complement Sri Lanka’s long-term development goals. During the intervals between sessions, attendees enjoyed a live jazz experience performed by **Mr. Ruchi Perera** and **Miss Onelli Ranasinghe** , creating an elegant and engaging atmosphere. They were also treated to a contemporary music segment featuring the voices of **Jayantha, Gnanes** , **Kusum Dilhani Upeksha** , and **Sayuri** , accompanied by a sumptuous buffet showcasing a diverse selection of cuisine. The event concluded memorably with a thoughtful **vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Saman Perera** bringing the proceedings to a warm and appreciative close. AGM minutes prepared by Dr. Jayantha Perera ## Hela Sarana ## **U.K. Registered Charity Number: 1093504** 18 Haydon Road, Dagenham, Essex, RM8 2PA secretary@helasarana.org www.helasarana.org ## **Hela Sarana Treasurer's Report Financial Year 2024–2025** ## **Treasurer's Report** I am pleased to present the Treasurer's Report for the financial year 2024–2025 on behalf of the Trustees of Hela Sarana. Throughout the year, the charity remained financially stable and continued to manage its resources prudently in support of its charitable objectives. Careful financial management, together with the continued generosity of our members, donors, sponsors and supporters, enabled Hela Sarana to sustain and expand its humanitarian programmes in Sri Lanka despite ongoing economic challenges. ## **Financial Overview** The charity's income was derived primarily from: - Regular Donations through standing orders - Individual donations - Just Giving - Breakfast Programme in Anuradhapura Hospital - Annual General Meeting 2024 - Tickets Sales, Raffle, Donations Teardrop MRM (Ultrasound Scanner for Karapitiya Hospital) - Kent Association for Sri Lanka Tsunami Daruwo Expenditure was directed principally towards delivering the charity's objectives, including: - Education Grant (Scholarship) Programme - Breakfast Programme for renal dialysis patients - Support for children and young people with disabilities - Medical equipment and humanitarian aid projects - Community welfare initiatives - Essential governance and administrative costs The Trustees continued to ensure that administrative expenditure was kept to a minimum so that the greatest possible proportion of income was directed towards charitable activities. ## **Financial Stewardship** Robust financial controls remained in place throughout the year. Income and expenditure were monitored regularly by the Executive Committee, and financial records were maintained in accordance with the Charity Commission's requirements and accepted accounting practices. Regular financial reports were presented to the Executive Committee, enabling effective oversight of the charity's financial position and ensuring that resources were allocated responsibly and transparently. ## **Reserves** The Trustees recognise the importance of maintaining appropriate financial reserves to safeguard the charity against unforeseen circumstances and to ensure continuity of its programmes. At the year end, unrestricted reserves remained at a level considered appropriate to meet the charity's operational commitments while supporting future projects. The Trustees will continue to review the reserves policy annually to ensure it remains appropriate to the charity's activities and future. ## **Investments** The charity held no material investments during the reporting period. Surplus funds were retained in bank accounts to maintain liquidity and support ongoing charitable activities. ## **Risk Management** The Trustees continued to monitor financial risks, including fluctuations in fundraising income, overseas project expenditure and exchange rate movements affecting charitable activities in Sri Lanka. Appropriate financial controls, budget monitoring and expenditure approvals remained in place to mitigate these risks. ## **Going Concern** The Trustees are satisfied that the charity remains a going concern. Based on current financial resources, anticipated income and prudent financial management, there is a reasonable expectation that Hela Sarana will continue to operate effectively and fulfil its charitable objectives for the foreseeable future. ## **Acknowledgements** On behalf of the Trustees, I would like to express sincere gratitude to our members, donors, sponsors, volunteers and supporters whose generosity continues to make our work possible. Their commitment enables Hela Sarana to improve the lives of vulnerable individuals and communities through education, healthcare and humanitarian assistance. I also wish to thank my fellow Trustees and members of the Executive Committee for their commitment to maintaining strong financial governance and ensuring that every contribution is used responsibly and effectively. **Methsiri** Mr. Methsiri Wijeratne Treasurer Hela Sarana RtQlSTERID CHAPffY NUMIIA,. 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