Because a home is not just a building, but the heart and haven of a family. However, the major flood disaster in Northern Thailand at the end of 2024 took that away from dozens of vulnerable households.
In Chiang Rai, dozens of vulnerable families faced both material and emotional losses. Many homes were rendered uninhabitable, forcing families to evacuate to live with relatives or in temporary shelters, amid deep uncertainty about what the future would hold.
“Children’s Cornerstone Foundation has been established for about 14 years now, with a vision to support children and youth. As a small organisation, we recognise our limitations in manpower and reach, so we seek partnerships with organisations that have strong networks with government agencies and communities. That is why we chose to collaborate with World Vision Thailand in providing assistance. I personally had the opportunity to visit the area back in October 2024 and witnessed the hardships faced by everyone. Today, I am here to take part in the handover ceremony and to share in the celebration.” Ms Rungrudee Sathapornchaisit, a representative from Children’s Cornerstone Foundation, speaks about the background of the project and expresses her congratulations.
Grandma Wai, one of the people affected by the flood in Mae Fa Luang District in Chiang Rai Province, recounts the day the floodwaters swept through her home: “It was very difficult. The water came fast and strong. At that time, my grandchild was still at school. We had to rush to pick her up and take shelter at the temple. My husband has partial paralysis, so moving him was extremely hard.”
When they returned home after the water had receded, what lay before them was thick mud up to their thighs, and nearly all essential belongings were destroyed. “We did not even know where we would sleep. Clothes, household items, the refrigerator, the washing machine—everything was damaged,” Grandma Wai says, her voice trembling.
But in the misery, there is still hope, as many agencies have come to lend a helping hand, especially the Supanimit Foundation of Thailand , which has collaborated with the Sermkla Foundation to implement the “Baan Sermkla Project” to restore houses to become safe places to live once again.
“I am so happy that many organisations came to help repair our home, so my grandchild and I could return to a warm and safe place. My children do not have to worry as much anymore. I am truly grateful to everyone who did not abandon us,” Grandma Wai says, with a hopeful smile.
Lalita, one of the people affected by a landslide in Wiang Kaen District, Chiang Rai Province, speaks with determination: “Even though our house collapsed, we still have hope.”
Lalita’s home was severely damaged after days of continuous heavy rain, forcing her family to evacuate and stay with relatives. “My husband and I built this house with our own hands just seven years ago, and now we cannot live in it anymore. It is heartbreaking. But I am grateful for the encouragement from those around us, and for the support from Children’s Cornerstone Foundation and World Vision Thailand, who came to help us rebuild.”
Not only was her home affected, but her uncle’s house was also damaged. However, support from partner organisations—including the installation of a community water system and water tanks through the ‘HSBC Thailand Flood Relief Donation 2024’—has helped restore essential infrastructure in the community.
“Thank you to Children’s Cornerstone Foundation and World Vision Thailand—not only for helping rebuild our homes, but also for restoring the spirit of our community. These things truly mean so much,” Lalita says with heartfelt gratitude.
Dr Wimolrat Seesan, Regional Programme Implementation Manager-North & Central, World Vision Thailand, shares: “Today, we visited a family affected by the major flood. It is a family we have been supporting. We witnessed the collaboration from all sectors, especially Children’s Cornerstone Foundation, which plays a vital role in making this project a reality. We are grateful for every partnership that has helped bring happiness back to the community.”
While natural disasters may be unavoidable, the power of collaboration and the spirit of generosity within society can ease suffering and reignite hope—one household, one family at a time—so that ‘home’ can once again mean a haven for vulnerable children and families.
