Stories from Pathahewaheta
Behind every number is a family, a child, an elder, or a farmer whose life changed in a single night. These stories are shared with consent to show who you are helping when you support the village.
Verified photo from the affected areas in Pathahewaheta, provided by Thambapanniye API Charity Trust.
“A home buried overnight”
A family living on one of the upper slopes went to bed during the heavy rain, unaware that the ground above them had already started cracking. In the early morning hours, a landslide buried most of their home.
They escaped with only the clothes they were wearing. Their children lost their books, uniforms, and a safe place to sleep. They are now staying in a temporary shelter while the village assesses how to rebuild.
“An elder with nowhere to return to”
One elderly resident had lived in her home for over forty years. During the cyclone, deep cracks spread across her walls and part of the roof collapsed under the weight of mud. Neighbors carried her to safety.
Her home is now unsafe and cannot be repaired without major work. With limited savings and no income to rebuild, she depends entirely on outside assistance for shelter and essential items.
“Children whose school vanished”
One of the village’s preschools was completely destroyed. Books, desks, outdoor play areas, and all classroom materials were lost. For dozens of children, school was not just a place of learning but a stable environment that helped them feel secure.
Restoring a safe learning space is now a major priority for the community.
More stories will be added as verified information and consented accounts are collected from affected families. Out of respect, no images of those who lost their lives will ever be published.