Charity is the voluntary act of giving help, typically in the form of money, time, or resources, to those in need. Charitable organizations aim to solve social, environmental, and economic challenges by addressing issues like poverty
We are the ‘Society for the Upliftment and Rehabilitation of Leprosy-Affected Persons’, commonly known as SUROL in Sri Lanka. As a collective, we believe in the remarkable capacity of human generosity and mutual support. For more than five decades, we have walked alongside individuals and families affected by leprosy, helping them rebuild their lives with dignity, self-reliance, and hope.
What began as an act of compassion has grown into a nationwide movement for rehabilitation, inclusion, and awareness - proving that when people come together in kindness, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome.
SUROL was established in 1971 by Fr. Realino Chiriatti and was subsequently guided by the late Rev. Fr. Glen Fernando, whose vision and compassion played a significant role in developing the organisation into its current form. In 1973, SUROL received official recognition as a registered charity by the government of Sri Lanka.
We are committed and dedicated to establishing a society where persons affected by leprosy find themselves acceptable as equal partners with all others in the community and society at large.
Promoting activities for sharing of resources, to help disabled persons affected by Leprosy to uplift & rehabilitate themselves, and participate effectively in the social and economic life of the community.
Our priority is to provide relief and rehabilitation to the most marginalized - the “poorest of the poor.” Our commitment is to raise funds and implement sustainable programs that empower leprosy-affected individuals to live independently and with pride.
Presently, SUROL continues under the patronage of His Eminence Rt. Rev. Dr. Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, Archbishop of Colombo, with Rev. Fr. Neil Dias Karunaratne, C.Ss.R serving as Honorary General Secretary. From its inception, SUROL has remained non-religious, non-sectarian, and non-partisan, opening its doors to all in need. Our twofold approach has always been clear:
offering financial, medical, and emotional support.
working to eliminate the stigma surrounding leprosy in Sri Lanka.
Since its founding in 1971, SUROL has remained steadfast in its mission to uplift the lives of those affected by leprosy in Sri Lanka through rehabilitation, education, and social integration. What began as a small initiative of compassion has, over the years, become a movement sustained by the dedication of clergy, religious orders, and laypersons who have selflessly devoted themselves to this cause.
In the mid-1980s, Rev. Fr. Glen Fernando became the guiding force behind SUROL’s growth, leading with deep compassion, humility, and faith. His leadership strengthened the organization and inspired all who served alongside him. Upon his passing in 2007, SUROL was entrusted to the care of the Catholic Archbishop of Colombo, becoming an apostolate under the Church’s stewardship.
Carrying forward Fr. Glen’s legacy, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Perera and later Rev. Fr. Neil Karunaratne expanded SUROL’s outreach, fortified its donor network, and reinforced its presence both within Sri Lanka and abroad. Their efforts ensured the continuity and stability of the mission while keeping alive the spirit of love and service that has defined SUROL since its beginning.
Today, SUROL stands renewed in purpose - committed to rehabilitating leprosy-affected persons through medical aid, education, and community reintegration, and to restoring their rightful place in society with dignity and hope.
We express heartfelt gratitude to all who have served this mission with unwavering dedication – the Jesuit Priests, Sisters of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, and countless others who gave selflessly, asking for no recognition.
A tireless force of love and compassion, Fr. Glen Fernando dedicated over two decades to SUROL, knowing each beneficiary by name and story. His kindness and empathy continue to inspire every life we touch. May his soul rest in peace.
We honour Rev. Sr. Rudolf Perera of the Holy Family Sisters, who served SUROL for over twenty years, often traveling to remote areas to meet beneficiaries. Her humility and devotion remain a guiding light for all who follow in her path.
We extend our deep gratitude to Rev. Fr. Neil Dias Karunaratne, C.Ss.R, whose leadership, compassion, and faith have guided SUROL through a new era of growth and stability. May his ongoing service as patron continue to bless this mission.
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable the a content of a page when looking at its layout. Many desktop publishing packages and web page editors.
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable the a content of a page when looking at its layout. Many desktop publishing packages and web page editors.
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable the a content of a page when looking at its layout. Many desktop publishing packages and web page editors.
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable the a content of a page when looking at its layout. Many desktop publishing packages and web page editors.
Charity is the voluntary act of giving help, typically in the form of money, time, or resources, to those in need. Charitable organizations aim to solve social, environmental, and economic challenges by addressing issues like poverty
Charity is the voluntary act of giving help, typically in the form of money, time, or resources, to those in need. Charitable organizations aim to solve social, environmental, and economic challenges by addressing issues like poverty
Charity is the voluntary act of giving help, typically in the form of money, time, or resources, to those in need. Charitable organizations aim to solve social, environmental, and economic challenges by addressing issues like poverty
Charity is the voluntary act of giving help, typically in the form of money, time, or resources, to those in need. Charitable organizations aim to solve social, environmental, and economic challenges by addressing issues like poverty
