The story of Baan Jing Jai children home started in 1992 when Khun Piangta rented a house to create a safe-space for street children in Pattaya. The home was able to accommodate and help 66 children in 2006 with the assistance of more staff and volunteers. The Norwegian Seamen’s Church in Pattaya has over the years volunteered and supported the home with food and various other means. Most importantly, they facilitated the contact between the children and the Norwegian community in Thailand and Norway. From the need for a bigger space, the local community and Baan Jing Jai started to fundraise money to construct a new home in 2010. The project was finally realised when the new Baan Jing Jai Children Home opened on Saturday. The new home can accommodate 100 children with 22 rooms, a playroom, library, study room, music room and a large dining area.
“A dream come true” was echoed throughout the opening day to describe the result of the charitable and heart-warming project. The strong engagement by Norwegians, both private sponsors and company engagement, is truly reflected in Baan Jing Jai’s motto: “A home with a heart”. All the speakers praised the contribution made by private individuals and companies. Employees of Wallenius Wilhelmsen sponsored one-third of the total cost, a major contribution came from Sputnik and his friends, and Jotun sponsored with paintings for the house. The complete list of sponsors is here.
Though the new children home is finished, the engagement from the Norwegian community strongly remains. Fundraising and donation will continue to support the maintenance of the home and sponsor the children’s education.
You can find more information about Baan Jing Jai Children Home on their website.
