By Dimithri Wijesinghe
Whilst Covid-19 has been difficult for most of us, it has been unimaginably worse for those without voices. With the second wave of the pandemic taking hold, we have collectively begun to prioritise our activities, and in doing so, there are those who get overlooked, especially stray animals like street pooches and cats who would rely on the general public and passers-by, and nearby restaurants and food outlets to keep them fed.
Dandeniarachchilage Chaminda Prabath Perera, better known as Kumara, is someone who has taken it upon himself to lend a helping hand to the stray dogs and cats in the Borella area where he resides. Kumara is a shoe repairman who works at a temporary set up under an umbrella near the Borella junction traffic lights.
Kumara is the de facto guardian of 11 street dogs and one cat in the Borella area, and he has been feeding them from his own pocket for years now. He said that his main source of income is by sewing and repairing shoes, while his wife too contributes by selling photo cards.
He said that before the pandemic, he had taken it upon himself to feed these animals daily; with whatever he earns on a daily basis, he would purchase what he can and prepare it for the animals; he said it was not easy even back then. However, it brought him much joy, and thereby he had no need for luxuries; feeding the animals and taking care of his family were enough for him.
However, with the effects of the pandemic, Kumara is facing difficulties in taking care of his adopted family of strays; he humbly requests the general public to lend him a helping hand in this regard, at least until he is back on his feet and is able to once again provide for them on his own.
Kumara shared that there have been a number of people who have extended their assistance through donations, by coming in person to help feed the animals, and also by spreading the word.
He hopes his story inspires others around the island to look beyond their own walls and their own family ties and to extend their assistance to others who may need it during these difficult times.
“I also do not have much, but I think I must take care of those who are in need around me as I cannot turn a blind eye. If we all come together, we can really make a difference and do a lot more good than just individuals like myself trying on our own,” said Kumara.
Concerned citizen Naveen Devinda who brought attention to this story on the Facebook group EPFS Community expressed the support given to his cause by the EPFS Community.
For donations, please contact Kumara directly on 0716 058 627.
Photos: Naveen Devinda