The Refuge
Recently, we got to visit The Refuge, a Children’s Home we support in a refugee camp here in Thailand. There are 6 teenagers* in the home right now, with 10 more kids coming later this month. We were SO excited to finally meet the kids and to get a better understanding of what life is like for them.
The kids in this home are Karen, an ethnic minority from Burma that is facing genocide at the hands of the Burmese military government. These kids literally ran for their lives across the border into Thailand. During our time together we got to hear some of their stories. They have experienced things no one should ever have to go through – especially not as a child.
The thing that amazed us the most after hearing about their past, was the fact that they all want to go back to Burma. After running for their lives, experiencing the terror the SPDC (Burmese military) inflicts, they still want to go back. It doesn’t matter that they are safe now…. that’s not enough for them. While living in the refugee camp they want to take the opportunity to get a good education, and then they all told us that their DREAM is to go back to Burma to help “their people” (the Karen people). They want to be teachers, doctors, soldiers, and government leaders. They want to make a difference, even though it will be dangerous for them. Their courage is so inspiring! On top of being courageous, they are also kind, talented, and smart. These kids have so much potential – they just need someone to believe in them!
We count it a privilege to support these kids and to help them achieve their dreams. Every donation you give to The Sound of Hope helps give these kids a safe place to live, and an education. Tomorrow, you’ll hear more of their stories.
*names are not listed for the protection of the children
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