COVID-19 and Compassion’s Work in Thailand

An in-depth look at the coronavirus pandemic in Thailand

Last Updated: 10/19/2020

Thailand has effectively restricted the internal spread of COVID-19. On Oct. 8, the country postponed reopening borders to international travelers until further notice. Currently, a reported 4 million Thais are unemployed due to the lack of tourists.

As of Oct. 15, 157 Compassion centers have reopened, with a limited number of children attending and with COVID-19 prevention protocols in place. Another 22 are scheduled to reopen soon. In areas where centers have not been able to open yet, workers are keeping in contact with beneficiaries by phone and occasionally by in-person visits while maintaining social distancing. Additionally, staff members have developed online resources, including devotionals, for children and families. They have been able to distribute 107,599 food packs and 68,689 hygiene kits to registered children and their families.

How is Compassion Currently Operating in Thailand?

Below, you will find the latest information on how Compassion is currently operating in Thailand, including status updates on center openings, letter delivery and gift delivery. This is the most current information we have, though it can change quickly. Please know that all children and their families are being checked in on regularly by staff, either in person or by phone, even if the Compassion center is not open for programming. Watch this video for a detailed explanation of how COVID-19 is affecting Compassion centers and how local partners are caring for each registered child during this season.

Are Compassion Centers Open?

Some centers in Thailand have been able to reopen, while abiding by local guidelines for group sizes and social distancing. Staff members continue to work to virtual programming activity, including videos and livestreams, for the centers that remain closed. They continue to call and check in on families, and in some communities they are able to visit children while obeying social distancing guidelines. Because of the generous support of sponsors and donors, they have been able to distribute 107,599 food packs and 68,689 hygiene kits to children and their families!

Are Children Receiving Letters?

Are Gifts Being Delivered?

Gifts continue to be distributed in Thailand. Staff members have been given the option to disburse monetary gifts to an appropriate, verified caregiver, if necessary. This applies to family gifts and child gifts (including birthday and final gifts). Families may spend the gift on whatever they consider most important to meet family needs. The caregiver will be notified whether a gift has been designated as a child gift or family gift. The caregiver will decide the best use of the money, recognizing that sometimes purchasing food or paying rent is in the best interest of a child.

Story From the Field

Every year, 11-year-old Pawaret helps his father lead tours for tourists in the beautiful corner of Thailand where the family lives. But this year, there were no tourists. The pandemic outbreak has led to a severe loss of jobs in Thailand, particularly in the tourism industry. Pawaret’s father is out of work and struggling to provide for his family of five.

Their struggles have only increased with the drought that has left them unable to harvest their rice and other vegetables. Thankfully, staff at Pawaret’s Compassion child development center has been able to secure the family's situation. As well as providing encouraging words during a difficult time, they have delivered hope in the form of dried food, snacks and information about COVID-19.

“I remember the first time when I saw the center staff come to my house when the lockdown started. They came with a big pack full of supplies. I felt so much excitement and was so happy when I saw they brought some snacks for my siblings and me,” says Pawaret.

“We are so thankful for the Child Sponsorship Program that has never let us feel alone. Their support during COVID-19 has us feel they are like family," says Jaw-la-tu, Pawaret’s father. “It’s like there’s always a family that cares for us in a hard time.”

How can I pray for Thailand?

Pray for Compassion staff and volunteers as they seek to implement new strategies to help keep the youth engaged and make a greater impact in their lives. For more prayer resources, visit Compassion’s COVID-19 prayer page for prayer guides and a virtual prayer wall.

How Can I Help?

Sponsor a Child in Thailand

Give to Compassion’s COVID-19 Relief Fund

Learn More >