Rakprakun is a loving children’s home nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, and supported by Orphan’s Promise, in cooperation with Operation Blessing.

The 13 children who live here during the school term, come from extremely poor tribal families who live in remote areas. Some of the First Grade children used to walk 20km each day in the monsoon rains, just to attend the nearest school. Now, they are able to get a quality education at a school which is only 500meters away.

In the beginning, not everything was so convenient or comfortable at Rakprakun. When Orphan’s Promise and Operation Blessing staff first visited, the children were sleeping on hard wooden floors and there were no lights or electricity connected to the home. The tiny bamboo kitchen/dining hall was falling apart, and there were large holes in the thatched roof which were plugged up with plastic bags. It was unlikely that this roof would withstand the onslaught of the fast approaching monsoon rains.

Orphan’s Promise provided beds, mattresses, pillows, blankets and linen, so the children no longer have to sleep on the hard cold floor.To help them excel even further in their education, the children were provided with two computers, a printer, educational software, and three guitars. Sports uniforms were also supplied. Electricity was connected and lights were fitted so that the children can study and do their homework at night, without having to use candles.

One of the greatest needs was for a new kitchen/dining hall, and for staff quarters. In early 2009, construction began, and on May 24th 2009, the new buildings were opened and ready for use. The children and staff now have ample space and can prepare and eat their meals without getting wet. They also enjoy fresh food and cold drinks from a new fridge that was provided for the kitchen. The staff really appreciate their new facilities and are glad that this creates more space for other disadvantaged children, hoping to have the opportunity to live there soon.

Ten year old Ball, expressed his thanks at the opening of the new facilities. “I am really grateful to be here,” he said. “I didn’t have a chance to study before, and it was difficult in the beginning. Now, I am very happy because I can get a good education and we have guitars, computers, beds and a new kitchen. Thank you so much.”