Caltex gives light to visually handicapped

Kishu Gomes, MD and CEO of Chevron Lubricants Lanka PLC makes a donation to Sugath Wasantha De Silva, President of the Sri Lanka Council of Visually Handicapped Graduates, marking the special occasion of International White Cane Day 2009.

Chevron Lubricants Lanka PLC, marketers of Caltex branded lubricants, recently made a donation of specially manufactured umbrellas to all participants who attended a ceremony organized by the Sri Lanka Council of Visually Handicapped Graduates, to mark International White Cane Day 2009, reiterating the company's support and commitment towards promoting equal opportunities for the visually-handicapped community in the country.

The event was attended by more than 180 visually-handicapped graduates; some of whom actively participated in the day's proceedings through choreographed dance acts and other musical performances.

During the special address made by Mr. Gomes, he commented, our commitment to the visually handicapped community is unquestionable due to our long history of outreaching contributions made to ensure that this community is perceived and accepted in a favourable manner by our society.

Our involvement with this community spans over a period of six years to date. We want to give light to those who cannot see, and open the eyes of those in darkness.

Social acceptability and accessibility are key factors for the development of this community. This change is not something that can be achieved overnight. It is a battle that has been on-going for several decades; and can only be won when all sectors that exist within the visually handicapped community come together, to project a bigger voice, get noticed, and get heard.

Therefore, I am calling out to all within this community to join hands; and walk as one in this journey from darkness to light, he continued.