DLB implements impactful CSR initiatives

The Development Lotteries Board (DLB) is enhancing the positive impact of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) on the underprivileged and the people with special needs including agents and  lottery sellers.

Apart from that it has already laid the tracks to build the 21st century digital infrastructure to sell lottery tickets via mobile app - just like the way it has revolutionised the trade for the first time by introducing the instant lottery to Sri Lanka in 1983.

To start with, DLB has launched the 'DLB Sweep App' providing an opportunity to instantly check winning numbers of any development lottery draw. Through the app, one could also verify if the ticket purchased has any winnings and the details of prize money by simply scanning the ticket's QR code through a mobile phone.    

DLB has incorporated CSR initiatives more strategically towards improving the living standards of lottery sellers while helping the needy and uplifting people  from poverty, Chairman of the Board S.A.P. Suriyapperuma revealed.

The DLB also encourage their stakeholders to take necessary actions to align with the bigger and broader picture of society’s long-term interests.

DLB is an important contributor to the President’s Fund, which provides medical assistance for people with financial difficulties.
Furthermore, DLB also provides financial assistance for the treatment of serious non-communicable diseases such as heart surgeries and kidney transplants, he said.

50 percent of the contribution made to the President's Fund is credited to the Mahapola Scholarship Trust Fund established in 1981, with the objective of providing financial assistance for higher studies of students engaged in universities and institutes of technological studies.

DLB has contributed a sum of Rs.1,767 million to the President's Fund up to August this year compared to Rs 2,132 million in 2018 and Rs 437 million in 2017.

The main aim of the DLB is to become the foremost lottery organisation in the country that works towards enriching  the lives of Sri Lanka.

Soft Heart Foundation which is the CSR arm of DLB was established with the support of staff and donors to assist the needy with a view to improving their living standards even in a small way, Mr. Suriyapperuma said.

He added that several houses were built and handed over to needy sweep sellers without shelter facilities.

With a view to promote self-employment opportunities, DLB provides new sales outlets to agents on recovery of 50 percent of its cost of Rs. 43000 from them, he said.