This project is a landmark initiative aimed at addressing poverty and enhancing livelihoods in the Trincomalee district of Sri Lanka. This Sustainable Project Complex (SPC) as a part of our broader mission for the human community among us and around us. SPC, includes three business areas such as; Caritas Food City, Caritas Food Corner and Caritas Guest Villa. Caritas Food CityTrincomalee, not only serves as a commercial entity but also acts as a sustainable source of livelihood for underprivileged families. “An Innovation within EHED Caritas, Trincomalee”. The Sustainable Project Complex was launched on May 22nd, 2024 under the leadership of Rev.Fr.Dr.B.Paul Robinson. It includes Caritas Food city, Caritas Food Corner and Caritas Guest Villa, all aimed at feeding the poor with the customer thriving note. – “Your Purchase Feeds a Poor”
Our Scope:
1. We promote local entrepreneurs
2. We promote and encourage local products.
3. We provide marketing facilities to our beneficiaries at our Food City.
4. We introduce Silence Saving Strategy (SSS).
5. We provide special discount scheme for the poor.
6. We enhance standard living for all communities
Certain Unique Concepts:
1. Voucher and Loyalty Card System: To further enhance the community impact, we implemented a Voucher and Loyalty Card System. This system allowed financially challenged families to purchase goods at discounted rates, ensuring that basic necessities were accessible. The loyalty card (Points) also provided frequent customers with benefits, encouraging continuous purchase.
2. Employability: SPC has provided 22 new employment opportunities to local community members. Special consideration was given in selecting individuals from underprivileged families.
3. Church and Long-term sustainability: Previously, the Diocese had to procure goods from various external sources. Now, through the Caritas Food City initiative, all necessary materials for church operations are sourced from the supermarket. This has not only reduced costs but also ensured that the profits are reinvested back into local development.
4. Current Progress: Caritas Food City has proven to be a successful venture. Despite facing several challenges, it continues to thrive and has become a staple in the local community, offering a wide variety of products at affordable prices.
5. Silence Saving Strategy: It has always been a difficult task to save some money from the business we do. This SPC has made it phenomenon, that the local suppliers and loyal customers are introduced to a SSS where a small percentage is saved from their products sale and from purchase.
6. Future Vision : In the coming years, we aim to expand Caritas Food City into a key marketplace in the Trincomalee district. Our long-term goal includes direct collaboration with local farmers, allowing them to showcase and sell their products through Caritas Food City.
