AMount Gambier-based overseas relief agency can now distribute $1300 worth of goods in strife-torn Sri Lanka thanks a successful charity dinner in Millicent on Saturday.

The distribution will be arranged by We Care of Mount Gambier.

Members of a number of Millicent churches dined out on a three-course sit-down meal at the St Paul’s Lutheran Church in Millicent.

Coordinated by Kaylene Haslam and Lois Schwarz, the invitation at $20-per-head was accepted by 45 people.

Among the food offerings were butter chicken, Mongolian beef tagine and apple pie and cream.

The food was provided by individuals and eateries including Happi Belli, Chris Hollingsworth, New Heaven, Asia House, Master Pho, PM Kitchen and the Filipino community.

The We Care chaplain is Mount Gambier Anglican parish priest Father Neil Fernando.

He was born in Sri Lanka and explained the project when he addressed the Millicent lunch.

“There is chaos and complete disorder due to the political instability in the country which was caused by some corrupt politicians and so-called leaders in Sri Lanka,” Father Neil said.

“We Care Mount Gambier is organising an appeal for Sri Lanka whose leaders have left the people without food, fuel, electricity and basic needs because of political instability.

“The appeal is for $20 packages to be organised in Sri Lanka before the end of this month.

“The individual $20 gifts will go to people in those areas sorely in need.

“We are planning to support at least 200 families according to their needs.”