This Eid, our outreach programmes brought joy to over 100 children in rural Sri Lanka through gifts, games, and shared celebrations.
As the crescent moon heralded the arrival of Eid, a time of joy, gratitude, and community, our team at Open Feed embarked on a heartfelt mission to extend these blessings beyond urban boundaries. In the lush, verdant landscapes of rural Sri Lanka, where rolling hills meet modest villages, we organised an outreach program that turned a simple celebration into a beacon of hope for over 100 orphaned children. This Eid wasn’t just about festivities; it was about creating lasting memories, fostering connections, and reminding these young souls that they are not forgotten.
"The one who looks after an orphan and me will be like this in Paradise," and he held his two fingers together to illustrate.
Our outreach programs are rooted in the belief that every child deserves to experience the magic of Eid, regardless of their circumstances. In rural Sri Lanka, many orphans face challenges that go beyond the loss of family: limited access to education, healthcare, and even basic recreational activities. These children, often cared for in underfunded orphanages or by extended family members, rarely get the chance to experience the exuberant spirit of the holiday.
This year, we focused on orphanages in the eastern districts of Sri Lanka, areas renowned for their scenic beauty and stunning beaches, but also for their economic hardships. Our team, comprising volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including locals, international supporters, and even a few Eid celebrants from nearby Muslim communities, set out with a clear goal: to bring smiles through thoughtful gestures that combined tradition with fun.
The day began with the distribution of gifts, carefully selected to cater to the children’s ages and interests. From colourful clothing sets adorned with traditional patterns to educational toys, books, and art supplies, each item was wrapped with care and presented with a personal touch. Imagine the wide-eyed excitement as a 7-year-old boy unwrapped a new cricket bat, or a young girl discovered a set of vibrant crayons, simple items that ignited dreams and creativity.
One particularly touching moment involved a group of siblings who had lost their parents in a tragic accident. The eldest, a 12-year-old girl named Aisha, shared how the new school bags we provided would help them attend classes without the embarrassment of tattered old ones. “This Eid feels like a new beginning,” she said, her voice filled with a mix of shyness and gratitude. These gifts weren’t just material; they symbolised hope and investment in their futures.
No Eid celebration is complete without games, and we made sure the day was packed with activities that encouraged teamwork, laughter, and a sense of belonging. We transformed the orphanage grounds into a playful arena with sack races, tug-of-war, and traditional Sri Lankan games like Elle (a bat-and-ball sport) infused with Eid-themed twists. Volunteers dressed as friendly characters led storytelling sessions about the significance of Eid, blending Islamic teachings with local folklore to make the lessons relatable and engaging.
The highlight? A massive group game of musical chairs set to upbeat Eid nasheeds (Islamic songs). The air was filled with giggles and cheers as children dashed around, their faces beaming with unbridled joy. For many, this was their first real taste of communal play in months, a reminder that Eid is about unity and shared happiness. We also incorporated cultural elements, such as henna application for the girls and a mini talent show where kids showcased songs, dances, and even poetry about their aspirations.
To cap off the day, we hosted a communal feast that embodied the essence of Eid—generosity and togetherness. Tables groaned under the weight of aromatic biryani, sweet sheer khurma (vermicelli pudding), and fresh fruits sourced from local farms. Volunteers and children sat side by side, sharing stories over meals that were prepared with love by community cooks. This wasn’t just food; it was a bridge, connecting the orphans with a wider support system.
We were humbled by the participation of local villagers, who contributed homemade treats and joined in the prayers. It fostered a sense of extended family, showing the children that their community cares. As the sun set, we ended with a group dua (prayer), thanking Allah for the blessings and praying for brighter tomorrows.
Reaching over 100 children might seem like a small number in the grand scheme, but the impact is immeasurable. Feedback from orphanage staff revealed how such events boost the kids’ emotional well-being, improve their social skills, and even motivate better performance in school. In a region where poverty and natural disasters exacerbate vulnerabilities, initiatives like this provide not just momentary joy but a foundation of resilience.
This Eid outreach is part of our ongoing commitment to support orphaned children in Sri Lanka. We’ve seen firsthand how these programs reduce feelings of abandonment and inspire hope. But we know there’s more to do, expanding to more villages, providing year-round educational support, and building sustainable resources.
As we look back on this beautiful Eid, we’re reminded of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) emphasis on caring for orphans: “I and the person who looks after an orphan will be in Paradise together like this,” joining his index and middle fingers. If this story moves you, consider getting involved. Donate to our outreach fund, volunteer for future events, or simply spread the word. Together, we can ensure that every Eid passes without a child feeling alone.
OPEN FEED Inc is an Australian non-profit dedicated to uplifting communities by aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Our mission is to eradicate poverty by ensuring access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and sanitation.
