The Mercy Corps exists to alleviate suffering, poverty and oppression by helping people build secure, productive and just communities, and their support has been instrumental in assisting to restore the Seenigama region post tsunami.

In early 2005, Mercy Corps provided Rs 1,926,000 (US $ 19,260) through their Emergency Small Grants Program to undertake a large scale clean up of the entire village area.

This project had two objectives: to clean the village; and to provide an opportunity for employment to the villagers.

The project ran for approximately one month from 18 April 2005 and the grant provided employment for around 230 village residents who worked in teams to clean and clear all remaining rubbish, debris and damaged items from Seenigama.

Like the clean-up project facilitated by USAID in January 2005, this project significantly raised morale and greatly improved the landscape in the area. It was also essential during the monsoon season and to prepare for the construction of more houses.

In addition to achieving the set targets, there were positive by-products from this project. The process was quite therapeutic for the workers, as they no longer had to see and live with everyday the garbage and remnants from the nightmare they endured. Furthermore, the cleaner and more organised village helped to facilitate the constructions and developments taking place.

Most recently, Mercy Corps generously contributed Rs 2,406,400 towards the construction and establishment of a Brush Block and Coir Yarn Manufacturing Premises to improve the livelihood and skills development opportunities for the villagers of Seenigama and beyond.

The Brush Block Factory cuts and shapes a particular wooden brush handle for Ravi Industries Ltd. (a subsidiary of Hayleys) and the Coir Yarn Factory produces rope made from shredded coconut husks for Onril Pvt. Ltd.

Both factories opened in August 2005 and since then, production levels and product quality has been impressive. The Brush Block Factory currently produces up to 1,000 to 1,005 brush handles each week, whilst the Coir Yarn Factory sells on average 35 to 40 ropes per week. The Brush Block Factory currently employs 16 village men and the Coir Yarn Factory employs 20 village women.

Mercy Corps have played a vital role in improving the quality of life for the villagers. Not only have these new industries in Seenigama greatly improved the villagers' confidence and skills, but for years to come these factories will have a positive impact on the villagers' livelihoods and the economy of the region.

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