Opening eyes to hidden kids

20/08/2008

A BMS-supported care centre in northern Thailand is helping to break the social stigma of disability.

BMS nurse Judy Cook is seeing meaningful relationships being forged between children living at Hope Home in Chiang Mai and local Christians.

Judy writes, “Through taking different children to Thai church each Sunday morning we are seeing huge changes in attitude.

“The church members have taken our children to their hearts. They take them off us, hold them through the service and help feed them lunch too. Then, in the afternoons, the women and youth group visit Hope Home to sing, pray and play with the children.

“This all helps open the eyes of the Thai community to the reality of disabled children, many of whom are kept hidden away from sight. It’s such a breakthrough in Thai society, and we are really thankful and overwhelmed by their response, especially as it is such a small church too.

“Pray for further fruit to come from these experience, maybe even that Thai Christian foster families will take on these, or other children with special needs. This would be such an answer to prayer and the best thing for each of these beautiful children.”

Judy co-founded Hope Home for residential and respite disabled childcare in October 2007. There are currently six residential children and three who come each day.

A number of people volunteer at the home, helping the children with stimulating activities such as artwork and music therapy, and a Karen couple are now living in and caring for the children at night.

The home recently moved to a property with a large outside area suitable for riding for the disabled – with Robin the horse being prepared for his tasks this autumn!

Judy sums up by saying: “The love and therapy of the last six months is evident in small but significant progress in each child. A smile or a laugh speaks volumes as a thank you.”

Do you have the skills and desire to change the lives of others? Is God calling you to share his love overseas? Click here to find out more about mission opportunities with BMS.

Judy Cook – read her prayer letters by clicking here.

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