Ban Nam Khem, located about two hours north of Phuket, was the most severely affected village in Thailand on December 26, 2004. Out of 5,395 known fatalities in Thailand, 2,500 were residents of Ban Nam Khem, with only 49 out of 1,400 houses surviving without major damage. Within a few months of the 12/04 Asian Tsunami disaster, the Duang Prateep Foundation moved to recruit local staff in the community surrounding Baan Nam Khem, who were trained by DPF workers from Bangkok. Soon the locals were replacing the Bangkok based staff who had provided the initial assistance. Under Ms. Rotjana Phraesrithong's guidance, the local recruits have responded superbly to the many new challenges they have faced.In the second half of 2006, DPF staff were able to move their program of activities from temporary tents to permanent community centres. The first building opened at Phru Teaw in August 2006, with another centre at Baan Nam Khem to follow later. At Phru Teaw over forty orphans are living in the DPF centre, with others living in houses close by. The buildings also provide a night care facility for working parents who do not want their children left alone at night.
In addition, the new buildings are centres for many community based activities. Local residents of all ages come to the DPF buildings to enjoy the toy library, to study music and dance, to learn craft skills and for other vocational training and income generation activities, to participate in youth groups, and to attend community meetings.
The relationships formed between people living near the Duang Prateep Foundation centre in Khlong Toei Slum, Bangkok, and the people living in the tsunami affected villages, will continue to be strengthened. In particular, young people in both areas will benefit from the opportunities to learn from and assist each other.
The Duang Prateep Foundation is committed to working with tsunami affected villagers over the long term. The new centres will provide the facilities needed to further build on the impressive start made in the months after the tsunami.
Baan Tharn Namchai Orphanage
156/81 Moo 7 Tambon Bangnaisrj
Baan Ka Chard Road, Phru Teaw Village
Amphur Takuapa Phangnga 82110
For more information, contact Rotjana Phraesrithong at rotjanadpf@hotmail.com
Duang Prateep Foundation
34 Lock 6
Art Narong Road
Klong Toey Bangkok 10110 THAILAND
Tel: +66 (0)2 671 4045-8, 249 3553, 249 4880
Fax: +66 (0)2 249 5254, 249 9500
Web: www.dpf.or.th
