hands

changing the world
of those we serve

The protection of children at risk

photograph

Our Work

This initiative is based in the Golden Triangle area of northern Thailand, Burma and Laos. In this region we are working for the protection of children. The trafficking and exploitation of children is a serious and complex problem, and together we have been actively involved in providing a variety of solutions. hands has also developed a strong partnership with Akha Rescue Ministry, a New Zealand based charity that has been working with our local partners for many years.

Our challenges

It is common for traffickers from low land cities to travel to remote villages in order to locate families who are very poor and with little or no formal education. They promise the parents they can find work for their children. The children expect they will be working in restaurants or factories and be able to send money home. What actually happens is that the children are imprisoned and sexually exploited.

Our responses

In order to address these problems we have developed four main areas of intervention. Prevention, through raising the level of awareness and helping children gain access to basic education. Locating and rescuing children, who have become victims of abuse and exploitation. Providing safe hostels in a caring environment that allows children to attend school. Vocational training, including skills development, income generation and job creation.

Site by PerfectArc Ltd 2008