Empower, educate, and protect young Thai mothers

One of the simplest, yet effective ways of preventing various forms of abuse and exploitation of children is to help them stay in school. The problem many families face here is simple; work provides income, while school is an expense they can’t afford so they have their children work. A nearby government school may be tuition free, but the simple cost of uniforms, supplies, and food can be a high enough barrier to keep kids out of school.

We are partnering with another project in our foundation network called Education Matters that provides scholarships to help remove the burden of school expenses. This program has been going on for quite a few years, and nearly every single scholarship recipient has gone on to receive college degrees which is incredible! Each child is matched with a mentor, which has been a key to making the program a success. The Light Center and Education Matters are sharing the cost of supporting some children in our area so thank you for helping us provide this opportunity to families in Ubon.

Recently our team attended a ceremony honoring youth who are making a positive impact on the community. Our director Kanyapon was asked to speak to the young leaders at the meeting. She used this as an opportunity to talk to these future leaders and decision makers about protecting life, teen pregnancy prevention, and supporting women and children in need. Many of these youth were only high schoolers but already have a passion for serving their communities. She encouraged them to not worry about anyone in the community who may look down on them because of their youth or gender. They are all bright students, love to serve, and can each have a long term impact on their communities.

At the ceremony, we were also honored to accept an award from Ubon Ratchathani province for the work The Light Center has done in the region to hehlhp young women and children.