ChildFriend is a newly formed Swedish fundraising foundation. Its charter is based on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and maintains a Christian orientation ​​in its fund-raising activities, one focused on rescuing vulnerable children in Southeast Asia. It has now assumed control of operations previously conducted by BaanChivitMai Sweden, namely the funding of orphanage operations in Thailand.

 

Poverty is one of the root causes of child abuse in the world. Hunger can drive a man beyond what is moral. In Southeast Asia, there are parents who are prepared to sell their children in exchange for money, often very little by western standards.

 

Perception of the rights of children vary with culture. In Sweden we say we have children on loan while in Thailand they are considered property? In dire cases, children are simply assets for sale. We have met at-risk children who tell us they do not want to live with their parents and ask if they can live at BaanChivitMai (BCM).  Not surprisingly, children suffer physically, mentally and emotionally. 

 

For the past 25 years, BCM has been the last resort for hundreds of at-risk children in northern Thailand. Through generous unwavering support, BCM have been able to provide a loving home, good medical care, a risk-free environment and the opportunity for a sound education to better children’s lives.  

BCM currently operates one home located in Chiang Rai, northern Thailand. Over 40 children live there aged between 6 and 18 years. Most funding comes from individual donors in Scandinavia, but some businesses, churches, schools and associations contribute as well. 

 

Through ChildFriend, we now have the opportunity to reach vulnerable children in other parts of Southeast Asia. With over 25 years of experience gained from Thailand, we have a proven model to base our future programs and activities in other SE Asian nations.  Our vision is to reach beyond the borders of Thailand.   Children vulnerable to the sex trade, slave trade, poverty, ignorance and humiliation so common in parts of many SE Asian countries need ChildFriend.  

 

We are based in Huskvarna, Sweden and the Board consists of: inter alia, BaanChivitMai Sweden's former members.

 

More info about how to support: www.childfriend.com