Looking through an Australian's eyes, one might find it difficult to believe that children so poor could be so happy. Desperately poor families welcome us into their homes and share their food and lives with us. Their children are quick to share their stories with us and struggles in their lives. Read

Our work among the slums in Pattaya continues. Naruemon joined Openaid in October 2009 and works very effectively with young girls in our creative arts classes. Naruemon also helps in the office and keeps everything clean and materials stocked up. During the course of a typical week, Openaid invites local women to help with various activities and we give opportunities for part time and full time salary. Read

Imagine the challenge Naam faces every day of earning enough to pay the costs for her daughters to attend school. She speaks with Openaid women about leaving her children to take a job in Pattaya, and fear about her girls and prostitution if they don't get proper education. She explains that if she only had 300 baht every day from her own crops, she could maintain the girl’s schooling and invest in more crops to lift daily income. Openaid barbecue fundraising program in Melbourne is unique and generates funds for women like Naam to pay school expenses and start a small farming activity. Openaid in Australia

Fiona and Melanie arrive in Thailand and start at Openaid office inb Pattaya > Leadership for Change