Sobitha Thera, others ready to help stranded Ukrainians

By Chaminda Silva

Religious organisations, hoteliers and individuals have provided Ukrainians stranded in Sri Lanka with free accommodation.

Adhikarana Sanghanayake of the Dakshina Lanka, Ven Omalpe Sobhitha Thera yesterday said that there were Sri Lankans ready to provide free food and accommodation to the Ukrainian tourists who could not go back to their home country owing to the raging war there.

The Thero said that the Embilipitiya Bodhiraja Foundation, the business community of the town and people were ready to accept any stranded Ukrainian nationals starting from today (01).

Any stranded Ukrainian national could dial 07626664674, 0765306666 or 0713930088 to obtain assistance free of charge, the Thero said, adding that the Ukrainians stranded in Sri Lanka as a result of the invasion of their country by Russian troops, could avail the assistance for lodging and food until the fighting ends and flights to Ukraine resume.

Meanwhile, there are posts in social media platforms offering of free accommodation and food by some hotels and resorts as well as individuals.

The Farmhouse in Ambewela published a post saying it was offering its cottage to stranded Ukrainians for free.

Owners of a five bedroom villa in Kalutara also posted a message on Facebook saying their villa is open free to Ukrainians stranded in the area.

The Danish Villa is Arugam Bay has also posted a message offering free accommodation to all stranded Ukrainians in Sri Lanka.

Several individuals around the country have also posted messages on Facebook offering food and lodging to Ukrainians stranded in Sri Lanka.