Stitching Together a Brighter Future
Moving to a new place in search of a better future is never easy, especially when you are raising a child on your own.
Sa, a single mother from a Hmong community, moved from western Thailand to Chiang Mai in the north, hoping to build a better life for herself and her young daughter. As the family's sole provider, she worked hard to cover their daily needs and her daughter's education, but making ends meet was a constant struggle.
Sa had sewing skills, a strong work ethic and a determination to provide for her daughter. However, without a sewing machine and the right equipment, she could accept only a limited number of orders, leaving her income uncertain. Starting her own business seemed out of reach without the necessary tools and financial resources.
That began to change when Sa joined a BSF Family Strengthening Program.
Through the program, Sa received practical training in business and financial management, equipping her to manage her income, plan her expenses and prepare for her family's future. She also received the equipment she had been dreaming of: an electric sewing machine, a fabric-cutting table and a fabric-cutting machine. With these essential tools, she could begin growing her sewing business and taking on more orders.
BSF's support went beyond training and equipment. The program coordinator and volunteers also helped connect Sa with potential customers and markets, opening doors to new business opportunities and more orders.
Determined to make the most of this support, Sa worked hard to grow her business. Today, she sells her products at Kad Luang, one of Chiang Mai's best-known markets, and has increased her profits to around two to three times what she earned before.
This increased income has made it easier for Sa to manage household expenses and provide for her daughter's education, giving them greater financial stability and hope for the future.
Sa shared:
I would like to thank the BSF Program and all the supporters for giving me this opportunity. Because of your support, I now have hope and the tools I need to grow my sewing business. I can take on more orders and earn a better income.
Through the training, I have also learned how to manage my finances better, plan my expenses, and set aside money for my daughter's needs. I feel encouraged and hopeful about our future. Thank you for believing in us and supporting our family.
Sa's journey is a reminder of what can happen when a family has the opportunity, resources and support to build a better future. With her sewing skills, determination and newfound opportunities, she is taking important steps towards a more secure future for herself and her daughter.
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.
