Hi everyone,

Thank you for taking the time to visit our GoFundMe page for Cyclone Ditwa: Sri Lanka we appreciate it greatly. ♥️

As you may have heard, Sri Lanka is sadly currently facing the devastating impact of Cyclone Ditwah. Being December, a month where most of us are preparing for Christmas celebrations, big family meals, and time with loved ones, many countless families in Sri Lanka are struggling to survive. Some have lost their homes, their belongings, or cannot even locate loved ones in the rubble and devastation. Many are without shelter, a bed to sleep in, or simply a cup of clean water to drink. While we are surrounded by comfort and loved ones, our hearts break knowing that thousands are enduring unimaginable loss this holiday season, the contrast is staggering, and it weighs heavily on our hearts.

This disaster has displaced thousands of families, destroyed tens of thousands of homes, and left communities struggling for food, clean water, medical care, and safety, all in just a matter of hours. Roads have been washed away, homes flooded, and critical infrastructure damaged, leaving many people cut off from help. Seeing the country we love in pain while knowing that our own families back home are safe and supported has strengthened our commitment to use our privilege and blessings to help those in need of our support. ♥️

Sri Lanka is a developing country where nearly one in four people live below the poverty line. Many lack savings, insurance, access to emergency resources or any safety nets to fall back on. While natural disasters affect countries worldwide, in Sri Lanka the lack of infrastructure and support systems makes recovery far more difficult. Homes, livelihoods, crops, and small businesses have been wiped out overnight. Schools, hospitals, and roads broken beyond repair, leaving thousands without essentials like clean water, medical care, or shelter. For many, every single resource counts, and even a small act of support as little as $5 or a share, can make a life changing difference.

As of today 474 people have died, and 396 remain missing. Over 1.1 million people have been affected, with 200,000 displaced into temporary shelters. Tens of thousands of homes have been destroyed or severely damaged and critical infrastructure damaged, isolating communities and slowing access to aid.

Every donation big or small will go directly to those affected, helping families survive, recover, and rebuild. And if donating isn’t possible, simply sharing this fundraiser spreads awareness and brings more support to those who desperately need it. ♥️

Funds will support (but not limited to):

Those close to us know just how deep our love for Sri Lanka runs. It is our heritage, our culture, our roots, and the heart of countless memories, stories, and traditions that shape who we are today. We are proud to be Sri Lankan and have so much love for our little island, therefore seeing it go through such hardship and devastation is incredibly heartbreaking for us.

We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your prayers, generosity and kindness. ♥️

All our love,

Abi & Sareana Bastian

Last image: Us with the young girls of the Good Shepherd Convent Orphanage in the town of Nuwara Eliya, which has been deeply affected by Cyclone Ditwa.