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The Orphanges
Khao Lak RegionThe first orphanage (Baan Tharn Namchai) was built in August 2006 and construction of the second orphanage (Hands Across the Water) was completed in December 2008 and opened on Australia day 2009 at the completion of the 800km bike ride. Both orphanages are in the Khao Lak area of Thailand, two hours north of Phuket Island. The Khao Lak area was the hardest hit region in Thailand by the Tsunami. It was previously a popular resort area which supported many villages through the tourism industry. Both orphanages are bright, clean, airy and very welcoming. They have become homes to the 72 children who now live there. There remain some fairly basic needs that are still unmet and Hands recognises the need to continue supporting these children well into the future so that they can be comfortable, secure and simply have what every little boy and girl deserves. The orphanages are currently operated by the Duang Prateep Foundation (DPF). The orphanages are headed up by a full time Director, Rotjana Phraesrithong and staffed by approximately 20 staff members along with many part-time carers and volunteer social workers who have all been impacted by the Tsunami in some way. Rotjana and the team welcome assistance at any time and encourage visitors to the region to drop in, take a look and lend a hand.
Yasothon RegionIn March 2010 Hands decided to expand their reach and support a new orphanage in the Yasothon region called Suthasinee Noiin Foundation (SNF). The SNF is a home for 115 children who have been affected by HIV. The children who live there are either HIV positive or their parents have HIV and have passed away. SNF is located 530km north of Bangkok. |
