Helping a young Lao girl at risk
2 days before the new year I was contacted by Khmu people I know well, who discovered an at-risk teenager in their village. She has hardly any clothes and food and had been abused in the past.
She is 17 years old and left alone most of the day in her parent’s house. She went blind at 10 years in one eye and lost the sight in her other eye.
Her family is very poor there is alcoholism in the family and parents are rarely home. I shared her situation with friends and they very generously gave her money and clothes. Thanks to all those in Laos, New Zealand, UK, the Netherlands and the US who gave.
This week we have taken food and emergency clothes. I have also been in touch with a number of people and organisations to understand what housing options she may have so she can escape her abusive living conditions.
It would be great to find her a job so she can sustain herself in the future, so any leads, ideas, or offers would be appreciated.
The donate link allows you to donate in any currency and any amount you like. Stripe (a renowned processing system) takes 5% but I can also supply a NZ or Lao bank account to avoid this if you choose. I am of course totally happy to share all information and updates with you. Thank you.
I have met her family with the Naiban (Headman of her village) and had positive discussions. I will post an update soon.
Chansy, Donation, Laos, Luang Prabang
Yesterday I joined a meeting with the parents and headman. It was good to gently talk and hear that the girl wants help, and that the family and headman of the village also agree to this. We bought some fresh vegetables and fruit, snacks, shampoo, toothpaste and brush and other basic essential items. She received some super second-hand clothes (sinhs, long trousers, jumpers, shirts, blankets etc). We have been careful to not overwhelm her. It is saddening to see her so withdrawn, she has been isolated so long. Next we’ll buy items she needs such as socks, shoes, sanitary items and toiletries. We will take her to the eye clinic at the hospital for an assessment as well. Thanks for your help and I will keep you posted.
Hi everyone, an update about Chansy. She is still living in her village and being checked upon and cared for. This week we bought another 50KG sack of rice, noodles, eggs, tinned fish and other food and personal items for her. The village headmen helped and oversaw this as the village is in lockdown due to the COVID-19 lockdown in Luang Prabang. A team including the Luang Prabang disability manager, ministry of culture and information and other experts was established but doe to COVID much is on hold. I still have funds for ongoing food and personal care items for Chansy and will continue to keep you posted.