When disaster strikes, humanity responds. Following the devastating earthquake in Myanmar, Tzu Chi's Colombo and Hambantota offices called on the Sri Lankan communities to give of their love to provided much-needed relief to the survivors. These campaigns are a testament to the power of compassion in connecting hearts across borders. 

Hambantota’s Heartfelt Campaign 

Tzu Chi volunteers actively engage with the community during their fundraising efforts at the Hambantota Sunday Market. | Photo: Vihanga | Sri Lanka | 2025/04/06

A vibrant display of humanity unfolded in Hambantota on April 5 and 6, as Tzu Chi volunteers joined hands with the local community to raise Rs. 196,000 (approximately 654 USD) for Myanmar's earthquake survivors. This campaign, carried out at the Hambantota Sunday Market and Ambalantota, exemplified how a community that once experienced the impact of compassion is now paying it forward. 

Vihanga, a Tzu Chi volunteer and videographer for the event, shared the moving moments, “Some people even gave the money they had for tea breaks to support this cause. Their empathy inspired me deeply.” 

Tzu Chi volunteers conclude their successful fundraising efforts at Hambantota Sunday Market and nearby shops. | Photo: Vihanga | Sri Lanka | 2025/04/06 

Another volunteer, Vihara, expressed similar sentiments, “People in Myanmar are helpless, and the Hambantota community's generosity truly touched me. I’m proud to continue working with Tzu Chi.” 

Colombo's Multifaceted Approach

In Colombo, fundraising efforts took diverse forms, including a New Year Charity Sale held on April 9th. Featuring items donated by Tzu Chi members, the event raised Rs. 76,690 (approximately 256 USD). Volunteers creatively promoted the charity sale through social media, with heartfelt participation marking the success of the initiative. 

Posters for the New Year Charity Sale encouraged purchases to support earthquake relief efforts in Myanmar. | Photo: Victoria | Sri Lanka | 2025/04/09 

One customer explained, “Shopping here gave us a sense of purpose. We are contributing to Myanmar while buying what we needed.” Volunteers also collected direct donations from care recipients during a Pre-New Year Celebration, adding further to the relief fund.

Donations collected during the Pre-New Year Celebration for Myanmar earthquake survivors | Photo: Victoria | Sri Lanka | 2025/04/06 

The Ripple Effect of Compassion 

This effort resonated deeply with Sri Lankans in Hambantota, who still remember the kindness they received from Tzu Chi after the 2004 tsunami. For many, their donations are more than charity—they are expressions of gratitude and a way to honor those memories. 

With fundraising campaigns ongoing until the end of the week, Tzu Chi Sri Lanka hopes to gather even more support. These funds will be channeled through Tzu Chi’s international network to ensure timely aid for Myanmar’s earthquake survivors. 

These heartfelt campaigns are more than just acts of giving—they represent the profound ability of kindness to transcend borders and connect people in their most vulnerable moments. From Hambantota’s bustling markets to Colombo’s charity sale, every contribution has carried with it the hope of rebuilding lives and restoring dignity. Together, Sri Lanka and Myanmar show that when compassion guides us, humanity shines its brightest. 

By Sandali & Victoria