Loving families for orphans in Thailand

Our 'Orphans into loving families in Thailand' Project, launched in 2016, has driven meaningful change in child welfare by promoting fostering as a family-based alternative to institutional care. Through partnerships with communities, key government ministers and departments, we have achieved tangible outcomes for vulnerable children while building toward long-term sustainability. 

Key Achievements

The project has delivered direct benefits to children and families while fostering broader systemic shifts. We have influenced updates to Thailand's Child Protection Act, incorporating fostering standards that reflect international norms like the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. This, in combination with several awareness raising campaigns, has led to heightened public awareness, with positive views on fostering rising significantly and encouraging greater community participation.

On the ground, our initiatives have supported vulnerable children through targeted placements and training. For instance, just in Khon Kaen last year alone, we placed 12 new children into families, bringing the total to 20 children in safe, nurturing environments. To meet this growing need, we trained 26 new family carers in essential skills such as trauma-informed care and child development. Additionally, we educated 397 local leaders on the importance of family-based care, creating advocates who amplify our message within their communities.

Government Buy-In and Ongoing Collaboration

Government engagement has been pivotal, amplifying our work and embedding reforms. Close collaboration with the Thai Ministry of Social Development and Human Security has resulted in co-developed national guidelines adopted in 2023, now integrated into broader child welfare strategies. This includes budget allocations for subsidies and training, as well as campaigns drawing from our resources to reach wider audiences.

As this partnership strengthens, we are stepping back to an advisory role while transitioning complete ownership to the Thai government, providing technical guidance to address any challenges and maintain alignment with project goals.

Conclusion and Next Steps

This project highlights how NGO-led efforts can catalyse enduring change in child welfare, from policy reforms to community empowerment. With children placed, carers trained, and leaders engaged, we are advancing a more supportive fostering ecosystem in Thailand.

Moving forward, we will focus on advisory support as we transition full ownership of this project to the Thai government. Your support has fuelled these successes and we would like to thank you for your continued partnership and support in creating brighter futures for Thailand's children.

For further details, contact info@careforchildren.com