On November 22nd, another child from our Agape family embarked on a new journey. Her adoptive parents from Germany were overjoyed to welcome her into their lives and community.
Thanks to the generosity of the RBS Group from Bangkok, our girl with severe sciatica will soon receive her much-needed operation. They are covering the full cost of her treatment, including speech lessons.
During my 7-week stay at Agape Home as a member of the Chiang Mai International Rotary Club (CMIRC), I asked Avis Rideout, “How are we doing financially?” Her reply was, “Wessel, we are floating.”
Though Agape continues to stay afloat, additional funds are essential to meet our ongoing needs. With support from donors in the Netherlands and Chiang Mai, we managed to raise about 1 million baht. Here's how the funds were used:
Renovated Jarawee House (Mother & Baby unit) – five more to go
Built six toilet blocks in the school building
Repaired the school building staircase
Started Phase 1 of swimming pool repairs (including survey)
Purchased new inventory for houses (washing machines, stoves, bunk beds, etc.)
Paved the entrance road to Agape’s premises
Painted fences, the cafeteria, school buildings, and 91 doors
Painted the front and interior of the main building for the first time in 22 years
Provided baby food for two months (currently hosting 27 babies, costing 35,000 baht/month)
Purchased 20 high chairs, a high-pressure washer, and a new camera system with 18 cameras
Organized a Christmas party at OMG Restaurant Chiang Mai, including gifts
A special mention to our Rotary brother Bob Ashley in Saigon, whose generosity ensures the maintenance of Agape’s dentistry lab. He covers the cost of new instruments, medicines, and other needs—a truly invaluable contribution.
Last week, the RBS Group visited Agape and donated food, computer desks, and office chairs. During their visit, one member, a Red Cross representative, noticed our girl with a cleft palate/lip who struggles to speak. She immediately coordinated with a surgeon in Chiang Mai, confirming that her operation will take place in January. All costs, including speech lessons, will be covered.
We’re also exploring opportunities with the RBS Group to support our older children with physical or mental disabilities. The goal is to develop a social workplace where they can earn an income and build self-esteem while living under Agape’s care. Discussions are ongoing about vocational courses and employment opportunities.
The growing support from Chiang Mai residents has been heartwarming. Increasingly, visitors bring essential items like rice, diapers, and snacks for our babies—a wonderful and positive trend.
Agape Home and its founder, Avis Rideout, deeply appreciate the unwavering support from CMIRC. Together, we continue to transform lives and build a brighter future.
With gratitude,
Wessel Veenstra
Member, CMIRC
Comments