- W
- D
My name is Miguel Cunat. I’ve lived in Sri Lanka for more than 20 years, and many of you know me through The Pekoe Trail. We have spent many years designing and building this world-class trail, which has become a lifeline for communities in the hill country, the backbone of livelihoods for guides, homestays, small businesses, and families across the tea country.
I am raising funds on behalf of the communities in Sri Lanka’s hill country, especially those who live and work along the Pekoe Trail and surrounding valleys, many of whom have been severely affected by Cyclone Ditwah. These communities have been close partners in building and maintaining the trail system, and many have now lost homes, businesses, footbridges, pathways, and essential access routes due to landslides and flooding.
How the funds will be used: Our immediate priority is to restore the trail and support those whose livelihoods depend on it. Funds will be directed to:
- Clearing and repairing damaged trail sections — including blocked footpaths, bridges, access points, and safety infrastructure so the trail can return to operation quickly.
- Supporting families and small businesses that have lost income due to trail disruption — through direct assistance and rebuilding infrastructure for homestays, guesthouses, cafés, guiding services, and other trail-based SMEs.
- Employing local teams to lead cleanup and rebuilding efforts — ensuring funds stay inside the community and generate essential income during recovery.
- Repairing and strengthening community infrastructure, such as water supply, sanitation, and facilities for schools, children, elders, and vulnerable groups.
Transparency & Accountability: Funds will be distributed responsibly and transparently in collaboration with area leaders, coordinators, small businesses, trusted NGOs, and officials on the ground. We will share regular public updates including receipts, photos, beneficiary stories, and progress reports. Any donor may request clarification at any time.
Thank you for supporting the people who make the Pekoe Trail possible. Together, we can rebuild the trail, and the lives around it.
Organizer
