Myanmar One Year On
In the shadow of an imposing Buddhist monastery, hundreds of students spend hours each day focusing on their schoolwork. They sit on sturdy chairs behind wooden desks, and their teachers instruct them with new blackboards and other supplies.
Just a few months ago, none of the parents in this Myanmar village dreamed their children would ever have an opportunity for a quality education.
Their previous ramshackle school building was blown apart by Cyclone Nargis’ winds last year.
“Even before the storm, the school was in such bad shape,” a resident said. “It would have fallen down with or without Nargis. Many parents did not bother to send their children there.”
Samaritan’s Purse partnered with local Christians immediately after the storm to provide food and other emergency relief. As the emergency phase subsided, we began to focus on rebuilding schools.
“We know education is a key component in long-term recovery,” a staff member said.
“Young people have to be given the opportunity to lift themselves, their families, and their communities out of poverty.”
Samaritan’s Purse built the school and provided all of the furniture and supplies needed to start classes. This building accommodates 887 students each day—so many that they have started conducting classes in two shifts.
You also may be pleased to hear that Samaritan’s Purse supporters have provided over $40,000 so far to help care for 1,500 Hmong children living in a refugee prison camp in northern Thailand. Click here to read more.
PLEASE PRAY
- For communities still trying to rebuild a year after the destruction caused by Nargis
- For our local partners as they demonstrate the God’s love and share the good news of Jesus Christ
