On a recent shopping trip my children were immediately attracted to a collection of brightly coloured, stuffed toys. Covered in local fabrics, the toys were quaint and charming and easily delighted my children's interest. On close inspection I was quite surprised to discover that they were not a product of another branded company but infact were created by people recovering from mental illnesses and living at the National Institute of Mental Health in Angoda.

A brainchild of the clothing stores, Fashion Bug, Amazing Lanka, a sub brand, was set up in 2013. It's objective was to introduce locally produced products directed at the tourist trade. Their mission was to bring local products into the limelight and through the purchases made by customers carry it forth into the international market. This collection of stuffed toys was made in a recent collaboration with the National Institute of Mental Health Organization (NIMH), the monies earned from the sale of such products were given back into the welfare of the NIMH organization.

The NIMH, located in Angoda is a residential facility created to help individuals suffering from mental disorders. Spread over quite an extensive settlement the facility provides a serene environment to help rehabilitate existing patients. With the introduction of such projects instigated by Amazing Lanka, this helps in the rehabilitation process by recognizing the talents existing in the occupants at NIMH, who despite being struck down by illness are individuals after all with their own talents and interests. Therefore with the purchase of these products we are instilling in them a sense of accomplishment and helping them live an independent life with dignity and self respect. These products are currently only available at Fashion Bug, the materials used and the decorations incorporated in the designs are all child-friendly and pose no risk. From T-Shirts to slippers, umbrellas and soft toys, Amazing Lanka has an extensive range of Sri Lankan themed designs inspired by own local talents.

As parents we will always be buying toys for our children. Therefore why not consider making such purchases instead. In addition to helping a community laden with difficulties, we are in fact giving that helping hand need for despite their illness these individuals are still aspiring to be successful as people. We are also teaching our children values, we are teaching them to help those in need, to give back to society and to always look out for their fellow man, race, class and creed irrelevant. Therefore this is not just a a colourful soft toy to be acquired, it is a lesson learnt, it is a step taken to educate our children and it is indeed a good deed done.

By Mayuri Jayasinghe