Established in 2017 by Rev Joshua Director of the Kaveri Kala Manram in Jaffna Chulipuram village, the Leprosy People Association (LPA) originated in Jaffna as the People’s Forum for Change, supported by The Leprosy Mission England & Wales (TLMEW) and Kaveri Kala Manram (KKM). Initially focused on self-help and self-care groups, it empowered leprosy-affected individuals through self-treatment techniques, medication guidance, and accountability systems. By late 2017, LPA expanded across all districts of the Northern Province and Batticaloa. Today, it operates actively in Jaffna, Mannar, Vavuniya, Batticaloa, Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura districts.

Meanwhile, in other regions, self-care groups initiated by KKM and (ADT) collaborate with LPA to replicate its model. These partnerships aim to establish unified self-care networks and foster LPA chapters nationwide. Through grassroots mobilization and organizational alliances, LPA strengthens community-led healthcare, advocacy, and social integration for leprosy survivors, ensuring sustained support and systemic change.

The LPA empowers those affected by leprosy to rebuild their lives by actively involving them in service delivery. Under the leadership of its first chairperson, the late Mr. Nagamani, the Association flourished for two years. Now in its eight years, Mr. Amerasinghe chairs the LPA, working alongside Secretary Mrs Nishanka , Treasurer Mrs Seetha  National Director Mrs. Debora.

With 516+ registered members in all six districts , the LPA aims to restore dignity, eliminate leprosy stigma, and foster inclusivity across Sri Lanka. Despite limited resources, the organization relies on its network of Volunteers (Ambassadors for Change)—including religious leaders, teachers, farmers, and politicians—to drive grassroots impact.