It's Never Too Late to Start Again
At 69, Fueangkam found a new opportunity to build a livelihood, support her grandson, and create a more secure future for her family.
Mrs. Fueangkam is raising her 14-year-old grandson, Fone, after his parents separated when he was young and left without taking responsibility for his care. As his main caregiver and the sole provider for their household, she collected and sold recyclable materials to earn a small and uncertain income.
Providing for Fone was never easy. With an uncertain income, Fueangkam often worried about how she would meet their daily needs and support his education. At her age, she sometimes wondered whether there was still an opportunity for her to start something new and improve their situation. At times, she felt discouraged and uncertain about what the future would hold.
One More Chance to Begin Again
Things began to change when the BSF team visited her home and learned about her struggles. Together, they explored a livelihood opportunity that suited her needs and skill set. When she learned she could start growing mushrooms with BSF's support, she felt excited but a little unsure.
"I thought to myself, 'Maybe I should give it one more try. I wonder if I can really do it.'"
BSF provided 200 mushroom-growing bags for her to practice with and supported the construction of a mushroom-growing house. As she gained experience, another 500 bags were provided to expand her production. She also received practical training from an experienced mushroom grower, guidance in saving money, and ongoing encouragement from the program coordinator and volunteers.
A New Livelihood, A New Confidence
With determination and hard work, Fueangkam has turned this opportunity into a growing livelihood. After approximately eight months, her mushroom business now generates around 4,000–5,000 baht in monthly sales. She uses this extra income to cover household expenses, provide Fone with school allowance, and save a little for the future. She is now using all 700 mushroom-growing bags and hopes to expand her production further.
Beyond the additional income, she has developed new skills, found work that suits her circumstances, and gained greater confidence in her ability to support her family. Most importantly, she feels happier and more hopeful about continuing to care for Fone and providing for his future.
"I Will Never Give Up"
Looking back, Fueangkam is deeply grateful to BSF for believing in her and giving her the opportunity to try something new.
"Although I am 69 years old, I feel happier and more hopeful knowing that I can still learn new things and support my family. Thank you, BSF, for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I will never give up."
Today, she has more than a new livelihood. She has renewed confidence, hope, and the opportunity to continue caring for Fone and building a better future together.
At BSF, we believe that when someone is given the right opportunity and encouragement, a new beginning is always possible.
BSF is a partner for project J1079N 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.
