Ton-or, or Pira-on, a fourth grader, has grown up surrounded by the quietness of a protected forest area adjacent to a national park. Her small home sits outside the village, without electricity, several kilometres away from the conveniences of town.
Since she can remember, Ton-or has lived with her grandparents, elderly caregivers who have raised her with love and perseverance. Her father left before she was born, forcing her mother to seek economic opportunities in town, rarely able to return home to see her daughter. The grandparents grow vegetables to sell, earning only enough for basic living expenses. Her grandmother, despite having chronic health conditions, continues to push through physical strain to care for her only granddaughter as best as she can.
Years ago, the family received a house built under a royal housing initiative. However, with time and weather, the house deteriorated—the roof leaked, the walls decayed, and the structure became unstable. During the rainy season, the family had to constantly watch for water seeping into their sleeping area. As Ton-or grew older, concerns for her safety inside the fragile home became even more pressing.
Despite these challenges, Ton-or remains a well-behaved girl who studies hard. Her grandfather drops her off and picks her up at school every day, never once complaining about the difficult commute. The teacher noticed that she was undernourished—smaller than children her age—but she always carried a strong and determined spirit.
A Ray of Hope for Opportunities from World Vision Foundation of Thailand
When World Vision Foundation of Thailand began working in the area, staff learned about the family’s situation and coordinated with community leaders to repair and fortify Ton-or’s house.
The roof and structural frame were reinforced, new windows were installed for ventilation, and the house was raised to keep it dry and stable. The once run-down home was revived, becoming safe and pleasant again.
On the day the restoration was completed, Ton-or beamed with one of the biggest smiles of her life. She ran around her newly improved home—warm, stable, and safe. “The roof will no longer leak. When it rains, no water will be dripping on my bed,” said Ton-or, smiling brightly.
A Life Filled with Joy and Hope
Today, Ton-or and her grandparents live with greater peace of mind. Their home is now safe, and smiles and laughter have returned to the family. The little girl who once lived quietly at the edge of the forest now carries hope for her future and dares to dream of better opportunities.
Ton-or shared: “I’m overjoyed. Thank you to everyone who supported us. I will study hard and be a good girl. One day, I want to help others just like how everyone has helped me.”
Ton-or’s story is a powerful reminder of how compassion can transform hardship into hope, and how a small, run-down house in the forest can become a warm, loving home.
