The project Suriya Lamai – “Children of the Sun” was founded by Venerable Bhikkhuni Visuddhi, a Czech Buddhist nun, based on many years of direct experience with the lives of poor children in Sri Lanka and other parts of Asia.
Through this close contact with everyday reality, a clear understanding emerged: children are among the most vulnerable beings. They are entirely dependent on the care of others, without the ability to change their situation on their own. When support is lacking, they are left unprotected and exposed to hardship
Why Children and Mothers
Children are defenseless and rely completely on adult care. When they are born into poverty, or into areas affected by natural disasters or conflict, their opportunities are limited from the very beginning.
Mothers are often in the most difficult situation. They cannot leave in search of work because they must care for their children. They remain in conditions of hardship, without stable income and without real opportunities for change.
For these reasons, we have chosen to focus primarily on:
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children from poor families
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orphans and abandoned children
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mothers who carry responsibility for their families
This choice arises not only from practical experience, but also from personal understanding. As a woman, Venerable Bhikkhuni Visuddhi feels a natural closeness to this area. This does not mean that help is not provided to men — especially in times of crisis, our support is open to all who need it.
Education and Support in Europe
Support for children is not limited to Sri Lanka. Venerable Bhikkhuni Visuddhi has long been working with children in Europe as well. In the Czech Republic, she established a Dhamma school where children are introduced to:
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meditation
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ethical principles
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the development of a calm and attentive mind
Teaching takes place not only in the Czech Republic, but also in other European countries such as Germany, Switzerland, and Belgium.
Our Work in Practice
The Suriya Lamai project was established with the aim to:
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enable access to education
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provide basic living needs
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support healthy development of children
Our support includes:
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school supplies and education
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food and essential needs
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assistance to families in difficult situations
Special emphasis is placed on respect for local culture and values, including the Buddhist approach to life.
Long-Term Experience and Continuing Support
Over the years in Sri Lanka, many children have been supported, and their living conditions have improved through this help. However, this work has not ended — the project continues.
Today, support is directed mainly to:
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poor and underserved areas
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regions affected by natural disasters
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communities facing long-term social challenges.
The Meaning of the Project
The Suriya Lamai project is not only about material support.
It is also a path for developing dāna — generosity, and karuṇā — compassion. Helping others has a dual benefit: it relieves the suffering of those who receive help, while at the same time cultivating humanity in those who give. Even a small drop, if it falls long enough, can penetrate the rock.
"Manopubbaṅgamā dhammā, manoseṭṭhā manomayā.."
"Mind is the forerunner of all states; mind is their foundation, mind is their creator.” Dhp 1
These words remind us that even small but consistent acts of help can bring real and lasting change.
Every child deserves a chance for a dignified life, education, and safety.
The Suriya Lamai project is one of the ways to help create this opportunity — step by step, with patience and compassion.
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Support Suriya Lamai – Children of the Sun
Spolek Karuṇā Sevena
Bank account: 6855679001/5500
IBAN: CZ49 5500 0000 0068 5567 9001
SWIFT: RZBCCZPP
Slezská 3, 796 01 Prostějov, Czech Republic
karuna.sevena.en@gmail.com
With a heart of compassion (karuṇā), this project supports children in Sri Lanka who live in difficult conditions—helping them receive education, care, and the basic support needed for a dignified life.
Donations are tax-deductible in the Czech Republic.
Please include the note: “For the Children of SL.”
As this is not a public collection, kindly include your contact details so we may provide a donation agreement or receipt.
Thank you for helping to bring care, stability, and hope where it is most needed.
Links for donation:
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