From Struggle to Stability: Mee-Aor’s Journey Toward a Brighter Future
- Ben Allgrove
- Jun 13
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 23
Life in the remote village of Pha Dang Luang in northern Thailand hasn’t been easy for Mee-Aor, a devoted mother of three. With an unstable income and limited opportunities, providing for her sons—Somchat, Giant, and Pili—was an uphill battle. But today, their story is one of hope, resilience, and transformation—thanks to the support of the Building Strong Families (BSF) program.
A New Beginning with Challenges
Ten years ago, Mee-Aor made the difficult decision to leave her home in Myanmar and seek a better life in Thailand. Like many hill tribe families, she hoped for safety and opportunity. She settled in Pha Dang Luang, but life quickly became more challenging than she had anticipated.
Mee-Aor worked as a day laborer, earning just 200 baht (about $6) per day—when work was even available. With income so limited, there was no room for savings, let alone investing in a better future.
“I couldn’t spend quality time with my children,” Mee-Aor shared. “Family outings were impossible. We were just trying to get through each day.”
A Turning Point: Joining BSF
Everything began to change when Mee-Aor and her family joined the Building Strong Families program.
With BSF’s guidance and support, the family launched a small pig farming project. BSF provided three piglets, the initial feed, and training to get started. The pigs are thriving, and when they’re ready to be sold, the income will help cover the children’s education and expand the business.
What’s more, her sons are actively involved in the care of the animals—turning this into a true family effort.
Building Stronger Bonds at Home
But the transformation hasn’t been just financial. Through BSF’s regular workshops and Family Fun Days, Mee-Aor and her sons have grown closer. They now enjoy real quality time together and are learning to express love and appreciation in ways they never could before.
“We’re much more connected now,” she says. “My children have grown in confidence, and we’re supporting each other more than ever.”
A Future Filled with Hope
Mee-Aor’s outlook has completely changed. During a recent visit from the BSF team, she shared:
“I am truly grateful to BSF and very happy for the support in my livelihood. I once thought it would be very difficult to achieve this, but now I have started. I have hope and I’m determined to take care of this business as best as I can.”
Mee-Aor’s journey is a powerful testament to what can happen when families are given the tools and support to succeed. With new skills, deeper family connections, and a steady path forward, this family is stepping into a brighter and more sustainable future.
BSF is a partner for project J1079 & J1102 with Australian NGO, Global Development Group (ABN 57 102 400 993). Donations to BSF through Global Development Group are tax deductible in Australia, NZ, and the USA.
Building Strong Families Foundation or มูลนิธิสร้างครอบครัวเข้มแข็ง is a registered foundation in Thailand (ชม770), approved by the Ministry of Interior.
