“It was incredible,” Mani said. “They lost everything - and so many of the smaller villages have received no help from their government, even though millions in relief has been sent.”

Mani and his family visited a small village with 150 families. Ninety-seven people died in the village and the survivors were left with nothing. An urgent request was sent for bicycles - the main mode of transportation for families rebuilding their village.

Through the help of a Colombo, Sri Lanka businessman, 75 bicycles were made available at approximately $65. Mani, with the help of the Music Achievers Conservatory in Sterling Heights, plans to raise enough to pay for the bikes with a special concert March 13.

The Music Achievers Conservatory was founded by Vanessa Chasney. She offers private lessons in piano, voice and much more to area children with the help of several teachers, including recording artist Kristin Glasgow, a former student of Chasney’s. Glasgow, who will perform March 13, just released a CD which will be available at the fund-raiser.

The fund-raising concert will feature more than 65 students from Music Achievers - along with ethnic foods, dances and more. Food tickets for different items are entered for raffle prizes donated by local businesses.

“More than 100 kids will be a part of this and they’re so excited,” Chasney said. “We’re happy to help.”

Mani said the fund-raiser, set for 4 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church on Dequindre in Troy, will be a great family event. The cost is $10 for adults. Children are admitted free. Children dressed in traditional clothing of the countries affected by the tsunami will present flags from those countries.

“There will be a lot to see and do and we’re happy with the support from Vanessa,” Mani said. “All of the money raised will go directly to those families by presenting them with new bicycles. It will go to people who need it and haven’t seen help.”

Beyond the 75 bikes, Mani said any money raised beyond the goal will go toward more bikes, farming and fishing supplies.

“This is a nice hands-on project for the kids to be involved in,” Chasney said. “Our students are like a big family and this project will demonstrate the hard work and dedication of the students.”

For tickets, booth display or donation information, contact Mani at (586) 446-0148, Janakan at (248) 641-8211, Vanessa at (586) 939-4554 or Swarna at (586) 264-4854.

Faith Lutheran Church is located at 37635 Dequindre, between Big Beaver and Wattles roads.