A place to learn and grow
Written by Writer on Tuesday, September 16th, 2008
HELPING HAND
A place to learn and grow
The district of Nong Chok is only 55 kilometres from central Bangkok, yet many children there do not have the opportunities and facilities that many children living in the capital have access to.
That is why the Asian Resource Foundation (ARF) and the Australian Embassy Bangkok have come together to fill the gap by constructing a one-storey learning centre for the children and young adults of Nong Chok.
Funded by the Australian Embassy Discretionary Fund, the centre is not only geared towards supporting the children’s education, but towards fostering harmonious relations between people of different faiths, in the nearby and surrounding areas.
Children from nearby Muslim and Buddhist villages visit the centre for a variety of activities, from homework tuition, arts and crafts, peace and interfaith activities.
In addition, children are able to learn ICT skills and how to navigate their way through the Web.
One of the most valuable aspects of the Nong Chok Learning Centre is it provides a safe and pleasant environment where children can socialise with each other; whilst simultaneously broadening their interests and learning through educational extra-curricular activities.
Deputy Head of Mission at the Australian Embassy says the embassy was delighted to support children’s education, and hoping they will enjoy learning and making friends at the centre regardless of age or religious background.
The Australian Embassy is looking for equally worthwhile projects for the 2008 to 2009 financial year, with particular interest in alleviating basic humanitarian hardship through small grants to community groups and NGOs engaged in development activities throughout Thailand, on a strictly non-profit basis.
If your project meets these guidelines, application forms for funding and further information can be
found at the Australian Embassy web site:
http://www.thailand.embassy.gov.au/.
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HELP NEEDED
- FREE SCHOOL: The Mettasuksa School in Chiang Mai has been giving free education and boarding for some 500 poor boys for decades. Funded by the Jedee Luang Temple, the school is still in need of cash support and kindness to better serve the pupils.
To help, contact the principal at Mettasuksa School, 103 Prapokklao Road, Muang district, Chiang Mai. Tel 05-327-7783 or 05-381-4570. Bank info: Siam Commercial Bank, Sri Nakornping Branch, Amphoe Muang, Chiang Mai. Savings account name: Mettasuksa Foundation; account no: 549-223-907-9
- CHILD WORKERS: With better education for Thai children, sweat shops are turning to migrant child workers from our neighbouring countries. To counter the abuses, the Foundation for Children’s Development is providing child migrant workers with help in education, recreational activities, counselling and legal services. It also campaigns for educational opportunities and better working conditions for child workers.
To help, contact the foundation at 143/109-111 Pin Klao Pattana Housing Estate, Soi Wat Suwannakiri, Borom-ratchonnanee Road, Bangkok 10700. Tel 02-433-6292.
Bank info: Kasikorn Bank, Bangyikhan Branch. Savings account name: The Foundation for Children’s Development; account no: 047-2-61241-7
- EMPOWER: The mission of this women’s rights organisation is to empower bar girls by providing non-formal education, English-speaking skills and information about their work rights. It welcomes help from volunteers.
To volunteer, contact Empower at 57/60 Tiwanon Road, Tambon Taladkwan, Nonthaburi 11000. Tel 02-526-8311 or visit www.empowerfoundation.org
