The world’s largest network of independent freight forwarders’ charitable function, the WCAworld Foundation rallied together to arrange relief aid for the many Sri Lankan communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah in NOV25. The storm unleashed severe flooding and landslides leading to people being displacement across the island, and leaving communities in crisis. True to its mission, the Foundation harnessed funds raised through its global network of logistics professionals, to support a locally managed relief operation, partnering directly with WCAworld member, Freight Links International (FLI) in Colombo. In this way, 100% of all donations went straight to frontline needs. “Freight Links International played a central role in the execution of the project, leveraging its local expertise, logistics infrastructure, and established community relationships to coordinate procurement, transportation, and final-mile distribution of relief supplies. Their on-the-ground presence enabled rapid mobilization and ensured that aid reached even the most difficult-to-access areas, despite damaged infrastructure and challenging conditions,” the release states.
Relief targeted two severely impacted regions. In Kegalle District, where landslides claimed lives and demolished homes, families received vital household essentials: cooking utensils, furniture, and food staples. These supplies helped survivors restore basic living conditions, allowing them to rebuild daily routines amid the rubble. In Mannar District, school children were supported. Donations provided school kits, backpacks, and footwear vouchers, so that children could return to education and some semblance of normality.
“All distributions were carried out in close coordination with local community leaders, including religious and educational representatives, ensuring that assistance was delivered transparently and to those most in need. This collaborative approach, supported by Freight Links’ local knowledge and operational oversight, was key to the effectiveness of the response,” the release continues emphasizing the success of the action, and stressing that continued support is required as recovery efforts are ongoing.
