Thailand, Hands of Hope Project
The Hands of Hope Project, situated in peaceful and beautiful surroundings, is a place of hope and support for women and men living with AIDS from the villages around Nong Khai. Often shunned by people in their villages, here they are welcome and, mofeover, are able to earn an income from their work at the Centre. It is not only people with AIDS who work here. Sometimes it is the grandmother, caring for the children of her sick or deceased daughter or son, who finds here the opportunity to earn the income she needs to support the family.
The workers at the Centre painstakingly and meticulously cut and paste designs from saa paper to create beautiful cards, posters, mobiles, gift tags and other items. The sale of this work has made it possible for them to afford the medication they need and as a consequence the health of many has improved. Importantly, they also receive great support to ensure that they take the medication regularly.
Every month the Centre has a Family Day of fun, learning and a shared meal, involving the workrs, their families and also other villagers with AIDS who are unable to participate in the Centre. It is truly a place offering a hand of hope to many people who had begun to lose hope.
Here is a selection of their products
- Lotus Card
- Peace on Earth 'No Crack' Crackers
- Gift Tags
- Saa Paper Nativity
- Saa Paper Christmas Mobile
In 2009 there were over 516,000 adults living with HIV/AIDS in Thailand. Women are particularly vulnerable to becoming infected by their partners and women's groups in Thailand are increasingly becoming active in speaking out and in supporting one another.
