We are ecstatic to have commenced three programs already this year! Across three Thai locations, 30 vulnerable families have joined a BSF program; and we have the highest of hopes for these incredible participants. Hopes to see these families flourish in the most important ways: in relationship; education; financial stability; by breaking generational poverty; and by establishing a new precedent for their children.
Expectancy filled the air on 18 January 2025, the opening day for BSF Buak Khang which was held at San Kamphaeng Hot Springs. Eight families attended – 28 parents and children who came together to commence their 18-month program with BSF. As we officially opened the program, we gave the families the opportunities to ask any questions they had; our aim is to always foster trust and hope at every stage of our programs. The families also played a few games together – a hallmark of what is to come with their future family fun days that will knit these families closer together than ever. One of the family members, a grandmother and single mother mentioned, “This is the first time we’ve taken a break from work to relax together. It was so much fun, and most importantly, we got to know all the families in the program. It felt warm and gave us hope”. After sharing lunch together, the families spent time relaxing in the hot springs, chatting, and getting to know each other a little better.
Meanwhile, in busy Chiangmai, another BSF program commenced on the same day. Ten economically challenged families from BSF Cheong Doi 2 gathered at a resort for the opening of the program. Single parents, kinship care families, and other family forms got to meet each other, and got to begin forming bonds that will last over (at least!) the next 18-months. BSF’s mission, vision, and program details were all shared in the orientation, and families then helped each other to identify their expectation and set their goals for the next year-and-a-half. Parewa, a nine-year-old girl wrote down this dream: “I want my mum to have more time for me and my brother”. Surely, at the root of so many family issues, time stands as a core factor for connection, and, ultimately, familial health. A forty-year-old mother expressed her thanks: “I really thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity to be a part of BSF. I was extremely worried as a single parent about how to raise my children, but now you chose me to see the light and hope”. To every supporter of ours: this thanks is for you!
One week later, on 25 January 2025, BSF Padaed also commenced another program: ten families came together to start what we sincerely wish will be a thoroughly transformative journey. Yee, a 38-year-old participant said on the day, “I was so happy to join this Family Strengthening Program. I want to learn and start my career to develop my family’s life; I want my children to have a good social environment. By joining this program, I believe my children will be equipped and become better, more polite, and even more lovely. Thank you, BSF, for giving me this wonderful chance!”. After the orientation, goal setting, and pledge commitments, these resilient families sat down to eat together and, after, enjoyed the gorgeous view in Hangdong, Chiangmai.
We celebrate this month with these precious families, who have chosen a road that will not always be easy as they are challenged and stretched, and ultimately, grow together.
Families are staying together, poverty cycles are breaking, and a new generation of whole, healthy families are arising in Thailand, none of which is possible without your support.
BSF is a partner for project J1079 & J1102 with Australian NGO, Global Development Group (ABN 57 102 400 993). Donations to BSF through Global Development Group are tax deductible in Australia, NZ, and the USA.
Building Strong Families Foundation or มูลนิธิสร้างครอบครัวเข้มแข็ง is a registered foundation in Thailand (ชม770), approved by the Ministry of Interior.