Dharma Foundation Inc.

Dharma Foundation Inc.

Number of beneficiaries: 63

The Dharma Foundation helps poverty-stricken families in Sri Lanka, and aims to build self-sufficiency in future generations. To achieve this goal, we sponsor children’s education and wellbeing, donate bicycles, computers, sewing machines and other work tools. Other funds have contributed to building wells and refurbishing schools. The Dharma Foundation is non-religious and apolitical, and does not incur overheads or administration fees. Dharma volunteers pay our own travel, accommodation and other costs.

Computers for Students in Sri Lanka

The Dharma Foundation reached out to DEVICE DONORS for support for laptops and some essential productivity software (such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneDrive and OneNote, Norton 360 anti-virus, and Norton Utilities Ultimate) that can help the following students access the digital tools necessary for their studies, thus contributing to their academic success and future opportunities.

Thubaharan Jeyaseelan — Mechatronics — SLGTI

Thubaharan Jeyaseelan is a diligent second-year Mechatronics student at the Sri Lanka German Training Institute (SLGTI) in the department of Electrical & Electronic Technology. Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary program that combines mechanical and electrical/electronic engineering knowledge to develop intelligent machines and advanced manufacturing and processing systems. Thubaharan frequently needs to use processor-intensive and memory-consuming software like AutoCAD and Arduino tools, which are essential for designing intelligent systems and sophisticated manufacturing processes. He requires a laptop to facilitate his educational pursuits.

Specification Requested:

Asus Vivobook 15.6-inch Laptop

  • Intel Core i7
  • 16GB DDR4 RAM
  • 1TB M2 SSD Storage
  • Intel Iris Xe Graphics
  • 15.6-inch Full HD display
  • Windows 11

Saththiyathevan Kithurshan — Radiography — University of Peradeniya

Saththiyathevan Kithurshan, a dedicated student at the University of Peradeniya, is pursuing a degree in Radiography. Radiography combines the intricacies of medical science with cutting-edge imaging technology, essential for diagnosing and treating patients. Saththiyathevan needs a laptop that can handle the demanding software required for his studies and practical applications. This laptop would enable Saththiyathevan to access advanced radiographic imaging software and educational resources, greatly enhancing his learning experience and academic success.

Specification Requested:

Dell Latitude 3540 15.6-inch Laptop

  • Intel Core i5
  • 16GB DDR4 Memory
  • 512GB M2 SSD Storage
  • Intel Iris Xe Graphics
  • 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display
  • Windows 11

About Dharma Foundation Inc.

Joined:

The Dharma Foundation helps poverty-stricken families in Sri Lanka, and aims to build self-sufficiency in future generations. To achieve this goal, we sponsor children's education and wellbeing, donate bicycles, sewing machines and other work tools. Other funds have contributed to building wells and refurbishing schools. The Dharma Foundation is non-religious and apolitical, and does not incur overheads or administration fees. Dharma volunteers pay our own travel, accommodation and other costs.

How it all began

In December 2010, we travelled to Sri Lanka with the Australia Sri Lanka Medical Aid Team. The 35 Australians went to remote areas including Mullativu, Killinochchi, Vavunia, Nedumtheevu, Nayanatheevu, Marunthankeni, Trincomalee and the Hill country. After the medical aid trip, we met the Principal of Alagapuri Primary School in Ramanathapuram near Killinochchi.

There, 160 internally displaced families had been living under UNHCR plastic sheets for more than a year, and many people were suffering from trauma, disabilities and mental health issues. Many families had lost their breadwinner. Some children had behavioural problems, including extreme cases of post-traumatic stress disorder, others did not engage in play, interact or even smile and some could no longer speak.

We collected contact details and photos of nine children who seemed to be most in need and returned to Melbourne. By April 2011, we had found sponsors willing to make monthly contributions. The principal of the village school ensured the money was used for education and other vital expenses. Over the following months, we collected donations to reconnect electricity and water supply to the school, and provide fencing, sports equipment and uniforms. We returned in September 2011 to a heart-warming reception from the schoolchildren.

The Dharma Foundation was officially established after this trip; now 63 students receive $50 a month, which can be paid monthly or annually ($600). If you would like to make a one-off gift, please discuss this with us. There are many worthy projects that require support.

Contact:

Mala Rajah (Chairman and Secretary)

Dharma Foundation Inc.

Consumer Affairs Victoria: A0062457R

ABN 36 701 063 033

Social Harmony and Human Happiness

Timeline

  • Project Requested: 06 May 2024
  • Project Approved: 06 May 2024
  • Project Published: 07 May 2024

Acknowledgement:

The Dharma Foundation extends its heartfelt thanks to Mr. S. Yathavan (Centex Homes) and Dr. Arunothayaraj & Family for their generous contributions. These donations significantly enhance our ability to serve and support underprivileged communities, furthering our commitment to fostering educational and developmental opportunities.

Gratefully acknowledging a donation valued at $3,097.98 in market value either fully or partially.

Vivobook 15.6-inch Full HD Thin and Light Laptop
  • $1,399.00 | Intel Core i7 / 16GB / 1TB
Latitude 3540 15.6" Non-Touch Laptop
  • $1,399.00 | Intel Core i5 / 16GB / 512GB
365 Family
  • $139.00 | Digital Download
360 Standard
  • $104.99 | 1 (PC | Mac | Smartphone | Tablet) / Digital Key
Utilities Ultimate
  • $49.99 | 10 (PC only) / Digital Key

Generously contributed either fully or partially by 5 donors