Project Development and Financing

In 2003 the project created partnerships with three schools for Burmese migrant children in the Mae Sot area (Hsa Thoo Lei School, the BHSOH and Pyi Chit School). A formal Project Committee was created. It applied for funding to foundations and local organizations and worked with Champlain College - Lennoxville and Bishop's University to advertise for volunteers. The Committee has sent three teams of volunteers over a three year period. During this time, it has developed partnerships with other schools including Say Ta Nar, Hle Bee and Parami. Volunteers have assisted the schools in a variety of ways. They have provided teaching materials and English activity leadership and helped complete funding applications. Through the volunteers, the project has donated money to schools for different needs (a roof, lunches, funding for school outings, etc.) and joined hands with the organization Child's Dream to help build walls and latrines at one school. In 2004 the Committee helped one school to obtain a grant from the Canada Fund for Burmese Refugees. Four new volunteers are now preparing to go to Mae Sot in June, 2007. The volunteers have all received ongoing guidance and support from the Project Committee.

The total cost of sending four volunteers, supporting their work in Thailand and contributing classroom materials and financial resources to partner schools (about $1000 CAD each) is about $25,000 CAD. Grants from foundations and donations from local organizations and individuals, contributions from Bishop's University and Champlain College - Lennoxville and fundraising by the volunteers all help provide the necessary funding. The project is grateful for all donations, large and small.

Naw Tha Zin (upper right) with children