this article is taken from Bangkok Post Newspaper section : Outlook > Feature > Charities WE CARE : 14 Years of Caring (Source :http://www.bangkokpost.com
WE CARE : 14 Years of Caring
The festive season is a time for celebrating humanity and generosity. Here are some ideas for sharing your Christmas and New Year joy with those who have little to celebrate in life
Published: 21/12/2010 at 12:00 AM
Newspaper section: Outlook
How can we help people who try to help the less fortunate though their efforts are hampered by a lack of resources? That very question gave birth to this 'We Care' page in the 'Outlook' section when Thailand was hit by the economic meltdown in 1996.
The idea behind the page was simple; there are many readers out there who want to help, but they do not know to whom and where to give. Our role was then quite simple, serving as a bridge between the two parties.
By reporting what is being done to help the disadvantaged, readers can decide for themselves if they want to help, and how. Our first story was about a dedicated teacher in Chiang Rai who wanted to save young ethnic girls from the flesh trade. The feedback was overwhelming. Help went where it was needed. It is why we keep doing 'We Care' stories 14 years on.
There have been many ups and downs in our country in the past decade. Sometimes it looked like our society was near breaking point. If anything, it is the undaunted spirit of the dedicated people featured in 'We Care' - and the abundant generosity in society represented by support from Bangkok Post readers - which has made life tolerable for many of the downtrodden. It is this belief in humanity that has prevented our society from breaking down.
For every one of us at Outlook, 'We Care' also has a special meaning. Knowing that we are part of the effort to make a concrete, immediate difference in people's lives has made our career in journalism indeed worthwhile.
As 2010 is drawing to a close, the festive seasons offer us once again a chance to share our joy with those who have little in life, to put a smile on needy children's faces, to make someone's life a little better, a little happier, in our own small way.
If you are looking for where and whom to help, here is list of worthy causes. Our big thanks on their behalf.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
WOMEN
- Human trafficking: Once a victim herself, Chananchida Janthasaeng is now helping other human trafficking victims fight for legal justice as a counseller at the Foundation for Women.
Donations: Savings account name: "Foundation for Women"; Bank account No. 038-2-18085-2; Bank name and branch: Kasikorn Bank, Sathon Branch.
Call 02-435-1246.
- Unwed mothers: Based in Chiang Mai, the Wildflower Home Foundation is a shelter for women who suffer the traumas of unplanned pregnancies, domestic violence and sexual abuse. The aim is to help them rebuild a new life.
Donations: Bangkok Bank, Borsang branch, account name "Ban Dok Mai Pa" (Wildflower Home Foundation), savings account No. 532-0-25140-7.
Call 05-3386-568 or 08-9632-8847, email info@wildflowerhome.net or visithttp://www.wildflowerhome.
- Try arm: This undergarment and swimwear line is produced by a group of unionists who were laid off by Triumph International Thailand. The cooperative factory operates under the principle of sweat-free labour and workers' self-management. For more information, visit http://www.tryarm.blogspot
**Read more in section of CHILDREN, THE DISABLED, VOLUNTEERS, EDUCATION, ENVIRONMENT, CULTURE, RIGHTS, HEALTH, ANIMALS and RECYCLING at this link http://www.bangkokpost.com
