WVFT mag1/2014 eng

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WORLD VISION MAGAZINE

28th

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2014

World Vision Magazine

TUNGTABKWAI SUFFICIENCY ECONOMY LEARNING CENTRE

FROM HOPE TO DREAMS

RECOVERING CHILDHOOD IN A SAFE SPACE

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CONTENTS

3 Message from the National Director 4 Events 9 The bird’s announcement – change is on the way

10 Tungtabkwai sufficiency economy

11 Filling and fulfilling imjai rice

12 From hope to dreams

14 Tabon distribution, Philippines

16 Faith-based organizations

18 Recovering childhood in a safe space

learning centre

improving communities’ quality of life

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD:

Chitra Thumborisuth, Bunjongsek Supsopha, Wiwat Srithanangkun, Prasop Khunsithi, Janice Evidente EDITOR: Jessica Mauer | CONTRIBUTORS: Jessica Mauer, Duangporn Choktippattana, Paiwan Benjakul, Somluck Khamsaen, Prakit Lelaviwat, Titi Laohapinyojantra, Jay Mark Mijares | ARTWORK: Wittawat Suttipongkeat | TRANSLATOR: Monrudi Chantawichianwat WORLD VISION magazine’s purpose is to inform and create better understanding of the work of World Vision Foundation of Thailand, and to report back to our many valuable supporters. For donors, child sponsors, churches, government agencies and organisations in the private sectors who have been supporting WVFT’s work, helping the disadvantaged, The Magazine also encourages all people who have not yet considered supporting our work, to take the rewarding step of joining WORLD VISION. All right reserved. Copyright © 2014 by World Vision Foundation of Thailand. PHOTO CREDIT: Front & Back cover: Jay Mark Mijares READ MAGAZINE ONLINE OR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AT:

www.worldvision.or.th | E-mail: info@worldvision.or.th | Facebook: www.facebook.com/worldvisionthailand

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World Vision Magazine


MESSAGE FROM NATIONAL DIRECTOR

Dear Supporters and Friends, I pray that you and your family had a joyful Christmas and New Year. I am very proud to announce that this year is the 40 th anniversary of World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT). WVFT was officially registered as a foundation in 1974, a year after I joined. World Vision International first began its ministry in Thailand in 1972 sponsoring orphans in Udorn Thani and child care protection in Petchaburi with only five staff members. A lot has changed in 40 years. WVFT currently works in 45 provinces across Thailand, has 793 staff members, and sponsors 102,617 children. We have had the opportunity to see sponsored children grow into successful adults. Many sponsored children return to volunteer with us later in life or sponsor other children. Seeing the smiles and hope in children’s faces, then later seeing them achieve their dreams, makes our work very fulfilling. Development and changes first must begin with families. If parents are sustainable, their children benefit as well. This is why WVFT’s approach focuses on assisting in multiple aspects; education, livelihood, health and child protection. We see gradual changes and growth in the communities that we help as we empower and enchance their capacities. When WVFT first started, all of our development programmes and sponsored children were internationally sponsored. Today, 75% of our programme areas are locally funded and 68% of WVFT sponsored children are Thai-sponsored. Witnessing Thailand develop over the past 40 years and Thais supporting fellow Thais has been humbling and fills me with pride in my country. None of this work could have been achieved without your support. The smiles and hope that you have brought to children don’t just last for a day, they grow with the child. I thank you for your continuous support. Chitra Thumborisuth National Director

World Vision Magazine

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EVENTS

Child-Friendly Space in the Philippines

A STREAM OF GENEROSITY ASSISTS HAIYAN TYPHOON SURVIVORS Mr Sorayuth Suthassanachinda, the host of Channel 3 popular Morning News, handed a donation of 10 million Baht to World Vision Foundation of Thailand through its National Director, Mrs. Chitra Thumborisuth on 12 December, 2013. Mr Sorayuth (second from left) handed the donation to Mrs Chitra (fourth from left) Morning News raised donations from its viewers to further the relief efforts of three NGOs assisting Haiyan typhoon survivors in the Philippines. 10 million Baht was allocated to WVFT, 32 million B a ht to Wor ld Food Programme, and 13 million Baht to Unicef. Wor ld Vision Philippines has already helped over 162,575 people in the hardest-hit provinces of Cebu, Bohol, Samar, Leyte, Iloilo, Capiz, Antique and Aklan. The donation will support recovery work in these areas. “We will

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assist in cleaning the drains and roads through cash for work programme. A portion of the money will go to the rebuilding of homes, improving hygiene and sanitation, and caring for pregnant women. Children will also receive psychological suppor t,� Mrs Chitra explained plans ahead while thanking Mr Sorayuth for entrusting World Vision to reach out to Haiyan survivors. In addition to providing food, water, shelter and hygiene kits, World Vision Philippines has also established ChildFriendly Spaces (CFS) and Women

and Young Children Spaces (WAYCS). CFS gives children emotional support through counseling sessions and group activities, creating a safe space for them to play with friends and recover from the trauma. WAYCS provides breastfeeding support for mothers while their children receive health check-ups. CFS and WAYCS have been set up in the most devastated towns of Tacloban and Ormoc in Leyte province. World Vision Philippines aims to continue expanding its reach to assist 400,000 survivors or 80,000 families. World Vision Magazine


EVENTS

INI3 DIGITAL DONATED TO TYPHOON HAIYAN SURVIVORS IN THE PHILIPPINES

Ms Theresa (right) gave the donation to Dr Bunjongsek (left) for Haiyan survivors in the Philippines.

Ini3 Digital Public Company Limited, an online game publisher, donated 100,000 Baht to help Haiyan survivors in the Philippines through World Vision Foundation of Thailand ( W VF T ). Ms Theresa Mathawaphan, Ini3 Digital’s Vice PresidentOperations handed the donation to Ms Bunjongsek Supsopha, WVFT’s Marketing and Fundraising director at WVFT’s headquarters on 21 November, 2013. WVFT is accepting donations to assist more than 400,000 people (80,000 families) in the Philippine’s hardest-hit areas across eight provinces in the Visayas. These are Cebu, Bohol, Samar, Leyte, Iloilo, Capiz, Antique and Aklan provinces.

SIAM FOOD SERVICES DONATED FOOD PRODUCTS TO HELP SOCIETY Dr Bunjongsek Supsopha, WVFT’s Marketing and Fundraising Director presented a certificate of appreciation to Ms Thanyamas Vorachar t, Managing Director of Siam Food Services Ltd at the company’s head office on 11 December, 2013. The certificate of appreciation recognizes Siam Food Services’ partnership with WVFT in providing food products for use in WVFT’s activities. Siam Food Services, a leading importer and distributor of international food products, donated 1,627 pasta packs worth 106,991.52 Baht to WVFT. The pasta will be donated to sponsored children, used in communal kitchens in flooded areas for distribution, and sold by WVFT with proceeds going to the ‘Breakfast for Kids’ project.

World Vision Magazine

Dr Bunjongsek (second from left) presents a certificate of appreciation to Ms Thanyamas (third from left)

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EVENTS

Mrs Chitra (left) and Mr Chakrit (right) launched the Make a Wish campaign

Mrs Chitra and WVFT sponsored children

James Mar with WVFT sponsored children

TESCO LOTUS JOINS BREAKFAST FOR KIDS PROJECT FOR THE SECOND YEAR Mr. Chakrit Direkwattanachai, Senior Corporate Affair Manager of Tesco Lotus and Mrs Chitra Thumborisuth, the National Director of World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT) launched the ‘Make a Wish’ campaign at Digital Gateway, Siam Square on 20 November, 2013. Heartthrob celebrity James Mar was the main feature of the event. Part of the proceeds from Make a Wish campaign will help provide 200,000 breakfast meals for children under the care of WVFT in the north and northeastern regions of Thailand. Tesco Lotus joined WVFT for the second year to give impoverished children healthy morning meals through the ‘Breakfast for Kids’ project. Tesco Lotus’s Make a Wish campaign gave customers a chance to give back. At every branch of Tesco Lotus,

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customers wrote their wish on their receipt and dropped it into the lucky draw for a chance to win awesome prizes. Each of the submitted receipts was converted into breakfast for a child. The campaign ran from 28 November, 2013 to 2 January, 2014. WVFT has launched the ‘Breakfast for Kids’ project in eight districts across seven provinces in the north and northeastern regions of Thailand. Coming from poor families, children from these areas often do not eat enough. The undernourishment weakens their immune system, leading to stunted growth that eventually reduces their ability to concentrate and learn at school. For more information on the Breakfast for Kids project, please visit http://www.worldvision.or.th/breakfast4kids_eng.html World Vision Magazine


EVENTS

MONTFORT COLLEGE ALUMNI TREATED STUDENTS TO LUNCH Mr Tanin Patarachedsadatid, along with ten fellow Montfort College alumni organised and treated 80 students to lunch on November 17. Students from Mueng Kued School, Mae Tang district in Chiang Mai enjoyed the tasty food and fun games like musical chairs and balloon activities. The Montfort College alumni also donated medicines and 200 blankets to the school. These activities strengthen relationships between sponsors and sponsored children while developing a bond with sponsored children’s communities. Mr Tanin found the activity to be a great success, “I’m happy to see the children enjoying and participating in the activities. I’m very pleased that I can do this.” If you are interested in getting more hands-on, WVFT highly encourages sponsors to share their time and energy to such activities. We are filled with suggestions for activities, just give us a call at 0-2381-8863-5.

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1 1. Group picture 2. UPS staff and children walk along a wooden plank to transport fish 3. Mushroom nursery in Ban Huai Kob School supported by UPS 4. UPS staff planting trees 5. Trees to be planted

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AGRICULTURE FOR BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PROJECT IN KANCHANABURI UPS – Thailand, a private package and mail delivery service company, suppor ts WVFT’s agriculture for breakfast and lunch project. Ms Nardnada Kusalanan, UPS’ Human Resources Manager presided over the ceremony on 10 November 2013 in Ban Huai Kob School, Nong Loo subdistrict, Sangklaburi district, Kanchanaburi. Ms Nardnada disclosed, “Seeing the benefits of this project has impressed me. This project can be extended on a continuous basis as it provides occupational training for the students. Children are given breakfast and lunch. Since they are full, they concentrate better in their studies.” World Vision Magazine

Benjamat Wainipitpong, Acting Managing Director of Ban Huai Kob School said, “I wish to thank UPS – Thailand and WVFT. The support has given the school a food security project that enables poor children to have full meals and relieves the burdens of parents.” Yarachanee, sixth grade student said, “Thank you, UPS My friends and I are very happy that we have this project. I promise that I will take care of it and study as well as I can.” Ban Huai Kob School has opened a sufficiency economy learning center after starting the agriculture for breakfast and lunch project - an extension that benefits children the most.

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EVENTS

CHARITABLE MOTHER GIVES TO CHILDREN’S BREAKFAST AND THE PHILIPPINES’ TYPHOON HAIYAN SURVIVORS

(From left) Mrs Pornnapat, Mrs Thongdee and Mr Kadsana handed the donation to WVFT

Mrs Thongdee Saotoa donated 27,800 Baht to World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT) on 22 November at Siam Sanitech head office. Mrs Thongdee was accompanied by her daughter and son-in-law, Mrs Pornnapat and Mr Kadsana Umnakkittikul, Managing Director of Siam Sanitech. Mrs Thongdee collected the donation from well wishers on her 72nd birthday party and allocated 20,000 Baht to WVFT’s ‘Breakfast for Kids’ project.The remaining amount will be used to assist typhoon Haiyan survivors.

SPONSORED CHILDREN SING THANKS

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In Bangkok, hill tribe children from Thong Pha Poom district, Kanchanaburi province and Kang Kra Jan district, Phetchabur i province enter tained WVFT’s media and corporate clients with Christmas carol performances. The group sang songs in both Thai and their local tribal dialect. Their Christmas spirit was well received by the staff at ICAP Company Limited, Kiatnakin Bank, Lion Corporation (Thailand), True Corporation, Channel 3, Bangkok Post newspaper and Chao Khun Agro Products Company Limited. In Chiang Mai, WVFT also brought a group of Karen sponsored children from Omkoi district, Chiang Mai to sing carols in malls, hotels and corporate sponsors across Chiang Mai. Their cheerful songs drew crowds of staff and guests at Tesco Lotus, Makro, Big C Extra, Robinson, Chiang Mai Orchid Hotel, and the May Flower Hotel.

1. Children singing at the Morning News TV program 2. Caroling at the Bangkok Post office 3. Blessing the New Year for customers at Chiang Mai Robinson store 4. The singers brought the festive season to Chiang Mai Orchid Hotel World Vision Magazine


SPONSORSHIP FEATURE

THE BIRD’S ANNOUNCEMENT – CHANGE IS ON THE WAY By Somluck Khamsaen

Opening ceremony of dormitory and office building attended by villagers

Families of children apply the knowledge they received and plant chillies

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orld Vision Foundation of Thailand’s (WVFT) Omkoi Community Development Centre promises agricultural opportunities for a community hidden in the misty hills of North Western Thailand. Training in breeding pigs, raising chickens to produce eggs, growing organic vegetables, pumpkins and longan, along with creating biofertilizer, is offered as a way for villagers to increase their income. Over 1,360 families in this village and its surrounding area are expected to benefit. For those who live far from the centre, a dormitory was built to allow trainees to stay during intensive training sessions. A mushroom growing programme has been successfully conducted – parents learned new farming skills, and new ways to earn money. “We make mushroom packs because no one else is doing that in Omkoi,” says Mr Isara Boonsom, a WVFT manager working in Omkoi. The children I meet are beaming. Maybe they know what this place could mean to their future. Not too long ago, a high number of children were infected with parasites, Isara tells me. They also didn’t have enough food to eat. The parents know the significance. The mothers tell me their children are sponsored. They are ready for change. They are excited at what this centre means to their community and their families. It’s not just what will be produced here that excites them, they are excited to grow their knowledge. It will be a way to ensure that their children stay in school and are healthy. When parents are able to improve their yields, they can support their children’s education– even beyond high school. As WVFT staff and community leaders get ready to cut the pink ribbon tied across the doors of the dormitory, I noticed a little bird sitting on a nearby window. It starts to sing, as if announcing that change is on its way.

Training on how to grow pumpkins

World Vision Magazine

Omkoi development centre is one of the 17 centres that WVFT has set up. There are 6 centres in the north located in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai (3 centres), Mae Hong Son and Nan. In the northeast are 5 centres in Udorn Thani, Nong Bua Lamphu, Khon Kaen (2 centres) and Roi-et. The south has one in Ranong while in central and east: Uthai Thani, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, Phetchaburi and Chonburi. These centres continue to provide hands-on training to improve the livelihood of many families.

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TUNGTABKWAI SUFFICIENCY ECONOMY LEARNING CENTER

ungtabkwai sufficiency economy learning centre in Thung Sai Thong sub-district, Lam Thap district, Krabi constantly draws people from near and far to participate and enjoy its grounds. “This group comes and soon another group joins. World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT)’s Thung Wa group from Satun just came here last week,” says pioneer member of Tungtabkwai sufficiency economy learning centre, Mr Yongyut Suchada with a smile. Before the centre became well known, Mr Somwing Noosiri, chairman and member had to arrange several treatments to improve the grounds. Before, it was just a two rai plot of overgrown weeds. The group started the first treatment by making fermented fertilizer: Mr Somwing is a specialist in this field. Soon, news reached Lam Thap Area Development Program (ADP). As some members are families of sponsored children, WVFT joined in and provided support. “We received funds from WVFT to build a pig pen, buy pigs and feeds for them. After raising the pigs we sold them. We used a portion of the income to buy piglets for more breeding. We also bought five goats to breed. We have already raised and sold two batches of goats. We now have another 16 goats,” Mr Yongyut reflected back on how far they have come. Once the grounds became fertile, Mr Somwing and the members planted a basic vegetable patch. They dug a pond to raise frogs under newly planted climbing vegetables to

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By Paiwan Benjakul

provide shade for the frogs. The members also raise chickens to lay eggs and domestic chickens to sell, making chicken feed themselves to reduce farming expenses. “At first we mixed the feed with our own hands. As we made more, the effort was too much for us. We asked WVFT to support us with a food mixer cutting the food production costs in half.” explained Mr Yongyut. The integrated farming project also raises catfish and cows. Pig dung is used productively to make biogas. “The chairman, Mr Somwing has specifically stated that every member must go and apply the knowledge and must plant a vegetable patch at home. The chairman often emphasizes children’s participation, by clearing the weeds, watering, and harvesting vegetables. “They will have a sense of pride as they join in. The members do not need to buy vegetables for consumption. They can also share them with their neighbours,” explains Mr Yongyut. If member wants to raise chickens, pigs, frogs, cows in addition to planting a vegetable patch by taking all the knowledge learned in the centre and applying it, they can do so. When everyday life is linked with the centre, it is natural that a bond is formed. Members will often bring their children along with them to the centre to meet and exchange experiences as they relax and sip coffee together as though it was a park. “The members’ kinship has helped us to what we are today. I’m very proud of them,” says Mr Yongyut with a smile.

World Vision Magazine


SPONSORSHIP FEATURE

FILLING AND FULFILLING IMJAI RICE By Prakit Lelaviwat

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asty organic rice is now easily within reach and benefits World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT) communities to build better lives for their families. There are currently 86 families who grow organic rice through this livelihood project which was initiated 3 years ago with 15 families in Thong Saen Khan district, Uttaradit and Si Bun Rueang district, Nong Bua Lamphu. Each family received training from WVFT on natural farming, production cost and accounting to ensure long term livelihoods for the families. Ms Thewee, WVFT Business Development Service Division manager explains, “We want to help villagers help themselves and create a sustainable livelihood. We advocate the use of organic fertilizer; it is safer and reduces cost of production.” WVFT buys the rice directly from the families. Income from rice sales then goes to communities where WVFT works. This initiative provides stable income, ensures parents do not need to migrate to the city for work and have the funds to send their children to school.

WVFT’s Imjai rice now has 4 varieties to choose from. Consumers can be confident that it is beneficial to their health and nutrition due to vitamins and minerals supplements.

Province fragrant brown rice

Rice germ and fiber helps build the body’s immune sys tem, protec ts agains t infectious diseases, bleeding around the teeth and gums, absorbs the body’s waste products and protects against intestine cancer.

World Vision Magazine

GABA jasmine rice or germinated brown rice is grown according to the traditional method of villagers in Northeast Thailand. GABA protects against Alzheimer’s disease, amnesia, lower s blood pr essur e , cr eates phenolic group of antioxidant, curbs skin blemish and slows down aging.

Homnil black fragrant rice Contains iron and 7 times more antioxidant than any other rice, decreases cancer risk. The fiber in the rice helps lower blood sugar level.

Red jasmine rice Contains copper, iron, beta carotene, vitamin E and lutein; helps to prevent blood diseases, hear t problems, amnesia, synovial infections, and premature signs of aging.

Call 081-708-0711 to reserve your purchase or for more information.

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SPONSORSHIP FEATURE

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World Vision Magazine


SPONSORSHIP FEATURE

FROM HOPE TO DREAMS By Paiwan Benjakul

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ooking at the attentive faces of 30 boys and girls sitting together in the hall of World Vision Foundation of Thailand’s (WVFT) Hope for Children in Crisis centre can make a person feel dazed. But this sea of faces does not diminish the distinct features of a face with dark eyebrows, sharp, shiny eyes and happy pink lips at all. The eye-catching image may cause many to ask Sisuda Suwankao, Hope for Children in Crisis staff member, “Who is that lovely child?” “She is Kallaya, a Burmese child who has come here to study with us.” Kallaya was born in Molmein in Myanmar. She is the youngest child in a family of three. Her mother sold fish in the market to support her family until Kallaya was 6 years old. When her father abandoned the family, her mother decided to travel to Thailand to find work. “My mother entrusted me to my aunt. When I was 10 years old and in grade four, my mother returned to bring me to Thailand. She told me that I need not study any more as the school fees were too expensive,” says Kallaya, 13. Kallaya came to live with her mother and stepfather in Phuket. She did not have the opportunity to go to school and lived in an isolated rubber plantation. From early morning till midday, she had to stay alone while her mother and stepfather went to tap rubber trees. Kallaya’s living conditions were a source of real concern for Mrs Yee and Mrs Tuen, her mother’s friends. “We visited Kallaya and saw her living in this way and we thought it was not safe for a young girl especially as she is also pretty. We told Kallaya’s mother that Kallaya should come and live with us. We will look after her,” explains Mrs Yee. Mrs Yee and Mrs Tuen are employed as cooks in a Russian restaurant in Patong beach, a world famous tourist destination in Phuket. They rent a four square meter-room and live together with five Burmese friends. The roommates shift work ensures there was always someone home to look after Kallaya. Since entertainment venues exist on

every corner, Kallaya was not allowed to go out by herself. Mrs. Yee was always concerned a stranger would try to exploit Kallaya. One day, Mrs Yee’s relative who works in Diocesan Social Action Centre of Suratthani Catholic Foundation (DISAC) came to visit Mrs. Yee and met Kallaya. “My relative knows about World Vision’s school because sometimes DISAC does activities with World Vision. She told Kallaya that there is a school open for Burmese children and is free for her to go and study. Kallaya really wanted to return to school. I phoned and talked to her mother and she agreed,” says Mrs Yee. Kallaya is now back in school making up for the two years of schooling she lost. “I have been back in school one year already. I like it very much. It is fun and I have many friends. I get to study Thai language and this helps me to be able to read Thai. Wherever I go now I can read the posters and understand more. When I go buy things, the seller will say I’m so lovely and ask if I can speak Thai,” Kallaya smiles proudly. Not only can Kallaya speak and understand Thai, she is also becoming conversationally fluent. The project staff have given her the responsibility to translate for younger students. “Kallaya can translate very well. She is one of the three Burmese students in our school who can speak Thai well,” commends Sisuda. Kallaya also learns English, computer and arts. “I like drawing. Odd, a project volunteer tells me that my pictures are lovely and I can sell them,” Kallaya beams with pride as she shows her drawings. Kallaya’s capacity has developed within one year at the Hope for Children in Crisis school. Today, she is ready to enrol further in a Ministry of Education school. “The project has already contacted Ban Kalim School for three Burmese children including Kallaya. The school has agreed to accept her. We will inform her mother and if she approves, Kallaya can study the next school year,” says Sisuda. Kallaya smiles and closes her eyes and sweetly thinks about her dream. “I want to be a teacher.”

Hope for Children in Crisis is funded through Global Fund from Australia. World Vision Magazine

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SPONSORSHIP FEATURE

TABON DISTRIBUTIONWHEN CROSSING THE SEA BECOMES AN EXPRESSION OF LOVE By Florence Joy Maluyo - World Vision Philippines

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yphoon Haiyan, one of the most powerful storms on record to make landfall, battered the Philippines on November 8 and caused catastrophic damage. The storm affected more than 40,000 sponsored children in 20 development project areas where World Vision works. World Vision’s teams responded with emergency relief supplies for children and families in desperate need. Tabon was an extremely hard to reach area but World Vision made it happen. Florence Joy Maluyo from World Vision Philippines takes us on a journey of relief distribution in Tabon.

Upon the arrival of three trucks carrying the goods for 244 families, volunteers from the community started unloading and transferring them to the pump boats.

The fathers in the village carried all the goods from the pump boats.

I am still amazed on how the ‘bayanihan’ spirit (communal unity) binds the community. With 15 pump boats, volunteers loaded food and non-food items, ready for the 10-minute ride.

Traveling from Cebu and another three hours from Iloilo to Aklan, Jimmy Nadapdap, Response Manager, Dennis Capule, Security Officer and Steve Goudswaard, Operations Manager joined the distribution.


SPONSORSHIP FEATURE John Mike, a 9-year-old with a contagious smile, told me his story, “I was afraid during the typhoon. We ran to our neighbor’s house and the following day, we saw that our house was gone. Thank you for all the food and help. I really like the biscuits.”

In small boats are the relief goods the people have just received. “You made us happy today,” said an elder.

In the distribution area are more volunteers and community people waiting for the goods

Sponsored child Joshua with his captivating smile. “I like the mosquito net because I can now sleep well at night.”

Even the fisher folks were overjoyed with what they received. “We’ve been mourning for our loss especially for our source of income. Today, you made us happy. Thank you very much,” said Rene (man with a red hat), 62. World Vision Magazine

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SPONSORSHIP FEATURE

FAITH-BASED ORGANIZATIONS

IMPROVING COMMUNITIES’ QUALITY OF LIFE By Vallaya Panichpatana

C Religious leaders and villagers discuss lessons learned together at Wat Non Sao Ai

Children help to clean up the area around Wat Tup Saded

Children visit the elderly in Pan Suek sub-district

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ollaboration between faith-based organizations to improve the well-being of children, families and communities was first initiated in June 2013 in Ban Non Sao Ai, Ban Pai Lom, Ban Kok, Pan Suek sub-district, Aranyaprathet district and Ban Sang, Ban Tup Saded, Ban Klong Plang, Tup Saded sub-district, Tapraya district. The concept behind this initiative is to maximise the role of ‘faith-based organizations in improving the quality of life according to their religious beliefs.’ Buddhist monks and religious leaders from Wat Non Sao Ai, Pai Lom Church, Full Gospel Church in Pan Suek subdistrict, Aranyaprathet district and Fa Sai church coordinated together to improve the quality of life of the elderly. Community leaders, religious leaders, school teachers and local community hospitals came together to provide support. There were visits to the elderly to give encouragement, health checkups and education on how to better look after themselves. In Pan Suek sub-district, young people joined the elderly visits, helped to clean up the surrounding areas where they live and spent time chatting and providing support. In Wat Sanghae, community leaders mobilized people and children to help in mosquito control activities. In September 2013, the faith-based organizations agreed that serving according to their beliefs helps to bring to life the values of their faith in concrete ways that people can experience and see. This principle can be integrated into every aspect of community work – health care, livelihood, and education. The core beliefs are summarized as follows: BUDDHISM: ‘Gratefulness, love, kindness, mercy, tanang (give without expecting anything back), forgiveness, keep no record of wrongs, give opportunity, give donation.’ CHRISTIANITY: ‘Love God and love your neighbour as you love yourself; it is more blessed to give than to receive; do good to all people.’ In 2014, collaboration among faith-based organizations will expand. In Tapraya district, Wat Tapraya, Ootayan Santi Nimid and Non Somboon Church will be added to the network. In Aranyaprathet district, Moo 1 and Moo 12 community in Pan Suek sub-district and Wang Somboon church will be included to the community assistance network.

World Vision Magazine


Yes! I want to show kindness to a child in need. Name (Mr/Mrs/Miss) ........................................................................

(Block Letters)

Address ................................................................................................. ............................................ Postal Code.............................................. Telephone Number.........................................Fax............................... Mobile Phone.........................................Date of Birth ....../....../....... E-mail...................................................................................................... I want to sponsor a child (please indicate):

¡ One ¡ Two ¡ Three ¡..... Children Residents of Thailand Sponsorship Payment ¡ 650 Baht/child/month ¡ 1,950 Baht/child/3 months ¡ 3,900 Baht/child/6 months ¡ 7,800 Baht/child/year

YOU CAN CHANGE THE LIFE OF A CHILD,

International Sponsorship Payment ¡ 750 Baht/child/month

GIVE THEIR LIFE MORE MEANING

I cannot sponsor a child right now, but here is a special gift of

The life of a child in dire need may not seem significant but ‘you’ can change their life to have meaning and a solid foundation.

........................................... Baht to help children in need. Charge to my credit card account: (Please fill in the information below)

Due to global and local economic fluctuations in the last 2-3 years, fuel, postage and basic commodity prices have increased. World Vision Foundation of Thailand needs to increase international sponsor’s monthly donation to 750 baht to ensure inflation does not impact programme quality. The increase will enable us to continue delivering the needed support provided to our beneficiaries and keep you up to date on your sponsored child’s well being. Thank you for your support and understanding. For more information contact info@worldvision.or.th

¡ VISA (every bank) ¡ MASTER (every bank) ¡ AMEX ¡ DINERS Card Number

As a sponsor of a child/children, I authorise WVFT to arrange regular deductions from my credit card as I have stated in the beginning of the form until WVFT receives any further notification of cancellation or changes.

Expiry Date........................................................................................................ Card Owner....................................................................................................... Signature of Card Holder................................................................................ Charge to my bank account: (WVFT will send you a form soon)

¡ Bangkok Bank ¡ Krung Thai Bank ¡ Kasikorn Bank ¡ Thai Panich Bank ¡ Krung Sri Ayuthya Bank Crossed cheque payable to World Vision Foundation of Thailand Please tear along the perforated lines.

Dear International Supporters,

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I would like to send my gift by:

Ever since Pin was born, now 12, she has only had her grandmother, 72. Her grandmother is everything to her. Living on the grandmother’s old age pension of 700 Baht a month, they live in such dire condition. After all expenses are deducted, like water and transport, there is not enough money for them to live on. Instead of playing with her friends, Pin has to earn money by washing dishes during her school lunch break. Pin is willing to sacrifice her happiness to ease her grandmother’s burden. Pin is petrified of her grandmother passing away and cannot fathom what she will do once her grandmother is gone. Today ‘you’ can help change Pin’s life. Let Pin enjoy a bright future, go to school, receive school materials and get a chance to play. Sponsor a child today, through your generosity a child in need can receive an opportunity to live a more meaningful life.

¡ 2,250 Baht/child/3 months

¡ 4,500 Baht/child/6 months ¡ 9,000 Baht/child/year

Money order payable to World Vision Foundation of Thailand Phrakanong Post Office Money transfer sent to World Vision Foundation of Thailand’s savings bank account Bank

¡ Bangkok ¡ Krung Thai ¡ Kasikorn Thai ¡ Siam Commercial ¡ Krung Sri Ayudhya ¡ UOB ¡ Thai Military

Branch

Account Number

Thonglor Ekamai Ekamai Ekamai Sukhumvit 63 Thonglor Ekamai

206-0-43600-9 053-1-10632-2 059-2-40974-7 078-2-00965-5 361-1-02033-3 801-1-07026-4 152-2-00300-1

Money transfer from ......................................................................... Branch Date of money transfer...................................................................................

After the Money transfer, please send a copy of your money transfer together with this reply form to WVFT via postal mail to the address below or via fax at 0-2711-4100 to 2.We will send you a receipt to confirm your payment afterwards.

Thank you. WVFT cannot send you a receipt if we do not have a copy of your money transfer and reply form.

WVFT is the 59th humanitarian organisation under the declaration of the Ministry of Finance.Your donation is tax deductible yearly according to the law.


Teerasak, one of the children joins in the activities held at a Child Friendly Space

RECOVERING CHILDHOOD IN A SAFE SPACE by Jay Mark Mijares

W

hen Teerasak’s home in Aranyaprathet was flooded, his world turned upside-down. Now, at a World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT) Child-Friendly Space in Sakaew province, he and 40 other children have found a place where they can learn, play, talk about their experiences and simply be kids again. Teerasak transforms a blank piece of paper into a colorful canvas. The second-grade student is creating an unusual masterpiece - drawing an upsidedown boat that has three wheels, multi-colored clouds, and a smattering of raindrops. The drawing also shows his house, flipped upside-down, standing on its roof. The drawing reflects exactly the situation Teerasak finds himself in. This boy is one of the millions of Thais whose life has been flipped upsidedown because of the mass flooding that has affected 3.7 million people across Thailand. He’s out of school, trying to make sense of the damage his family has sustained. He describes his drawing and points to the boat. “It has three wheels because I want to get away from flood waters as fast as I can when it comes.” The recent flooding affected Teerasak’s spirit. “I am stressed because the flood waters have gone into my home. Plants and flowers flowed into my house as the water became strong.” WVFT is worried about the psychological impact of the flooding on children. Many lost their homes and countless families faced new pressure after the flooding destroyed their crops just a month before harvesting. “Children have a place to play in the Child-Friendly Space,” says WVFT’s Nannapat Sinwanaram, a Child-Friendly Spaces facilitator for the flooding response. “It provides a recreational place during the day away from the flooded streets where they used to play. It reduces the risk of harm during the day and is a place where children can learn life skills.”

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World Vision Magazine


CHILD-FRIENDLY SPACES are an integral part of many of World Vision’s disaster relief responses around the world, providing emotional aid for children through counseling and activities like art and music. When children’s normal lives are shattered, feeling safe again is an important step in their recovery: to be in a secure place that they can trust will not be turned upside-down.

Teerasak explains his picture drawing to participates in the Child Friendly Space activities

Nannapat (middle), Child Friendly Space staff joins in the activities

Teerasak and his friends have a place where they can have fun playing World Vision Magazine

“My father heard from our village official that there will be a gathering for children here, so he sent me,” Teerasak says. “I went with the other children to see what the fuss was all about. There were no classes in school after the flood so I am free for many days.” Teerasak, who dreams of being a fisherman, says that the center was a place where he could have fun again. “We were able to play games and sing songs. I like Gai Yang ThookPao (grilled chicken song) particularly, as we enjoyed the actions as we sing.” “They were able to wake up from a bad nightmare and retain a sense of normalcy,” Nannapat says.

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our vision for every child, life in all its fullness; our prayer for every heart, the will to make it so.

We are Christian. We are committed to the poor. We value people. We are stewards. We are partners. We are responsive.

World Vision Foundation of Thailand 582/18-22 Sukhumvit 63, Klongton-Nua, Wattana, Bangkok 10110 Tel. +66 (0) 2381-8863 to 5 Fax. +66 (0) 2711-4100 to 2

info@worldvision.or.th 20

www.worldvision.or.th ภ นิ มิ ต Worldวารสารศุ Vision Magazine


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