Media Centre

DFCC Bank has proudly partnered with the Courage Compassion Commitment (CCC) Foundation as the official Banking Partner and Gold Sponsor of the 1333Bikeathon “Ride to Save Lives” campaign 2024. This powerful initiative, targeted at suicide awareness and prevention, commenced on August 29th from Independence Square in Colombo. Riders completed a 13-day, 1,333-kilometre journey across Sri Lanka to raise awareness about the 1333 toll-free crisis support hotline and generate crucial funds to sustain and expand its life-saving operations.

In a strong display of support for its communities, DFCC Bank staff from its extensive branch network joined the campaign by participating in the ride, walk, and awareness sessions at various locations, embodying the Bank’s dedication to the cause. This initiative aligns seamlessly with DFCC Bank’s commitment to encouraging people to prioritise mental and physical health. It also aligns with the Bank’s broader Sustainability Strategy, which promotes healthier lifestyles among its stakeholders while furthering meaningful causes. By generously supporting the 1333Bikeathon, DFCC Bank is demonstrating its commitment to championing mental health and well-being while promoting sustainable practices.

Thimal Perera, Director/Chief Executive Officer of DFCC Bank, discussed the significance of this partnership, saying, “Our collaboration with the 1333Bikeathon reflects our commitment to supporting the well-being of our communities. As the official banking partner of this important initiative, we are pleased to be able to help raise awareness about suicide and mental health and raise funds for the 1333 crisis hotline. By supporting this cause, we hope to make a lasting and positive impact on vulnerable individuals and communities in Sri Lanka.”

Over the course of 13 days, participants passed through key hubs where local communities engaged through suicide and mental health awareness events designed to inspire positive change. The journey culminated on September 10th back in Colombo, aligning with World Suicide Prevention Day. Senior officials from DFCC Bank and other staff members joined the Ride on September 10th from Ratmalana to Independence Square. From Galle Face Green, DFCC Bank and stakeholders joined “Walk the Talk” – a final walk to raise awareness about suicide prevention while heading to Independence Square, where the concluding event occurred.

The 1333 hotline, a unique and free telephone counselling service in Sri Lanka, offers emotional support and guidance for people facing personal crises or who just need someone to talk to about their problems. Callers can speak to trained telephone counsellors who are willing to listen and assist, providing counselling and referring to other support services. The hotline is a completely confidential and nonjudgmental service, ensuring each caller is treated with the utmost respect and care.

As the 1333 Bikeathon riders approach their destination, the campaign’s impact is being felt across Sri Lanka, drawing attention to the critical need for personal crisis support and suicide prevention. DFCC Bank’s support, a key partner in this initiative, is a powerful demonstration of its commitment to social responsibility and sustainable development, reinforcing its leadership in driving positive change for the well-being of all Sri Lankans.

About DFCC Bank

DFCC Bank is a full-service commercial bank with a rich history of 68 years and offers a diverse range of commercial and development banking services. As part of its Sustainability Strategy 2020-2030, the Bank aims to become a leading institution contributing to greater resilience by creating resilient businesses and supporting green financing and sustainable, socially responsible entrepreneurship. The Bank has received numerous accolades, including being named the ‘Most Trusted Retail Banking Brand’ and the ‘Best Customer Service Banking Brand’ in Sri Lanka in 2021 by Global Brands Magazine UK and ‘Market Leader and Best in Service in Cash Management 2022’ by Euromoney. Additionally, DFCC Bank is ranked among Business Today’s Top 40 Corporates in Sri Lanka, is rated A- (lka) by Fitch Ratings Lanka Limited and is regulated by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. Attesting to its commitment to sustainability, DFCC Bank is also the first, and presently only, entity in Sri Lanka to have received accreditation from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), granting it access to concessionary funding worth USD 250 million to support climate mitigation and adaptation projects across the Island.