COVID-19 and Compassion’s Work in Thailand

An in-depth look at the coronavirus pandemic in Thailand

Last Updated: 07/09/2020

Reported cases of COVID-19 in Thailand are declining, and 96% percent of people with confirmed cases have recovered. The government has allowed some businesses to reopen and is cautiously relaxing some travel restrictions. Social distancing rules remain in effect. The economic effects of the pandemic have hit those in poverty particularly hard. The number of people living on less than $5.50 per day in Thailand more than doubled from 4.7 million in the first quarter of 2020 to 9.7 million in the second quarter.

Compassion child development centers are staying closed to group activities. In some areas, workers have been able to do home visits and hold group gatherings of under 10 while obeying social distancing guidelines. Church partners are distributing soap, sanitizer gels and face masks in some areas, and some centers have begun making masks and sanitizer. They have been able to distribute 75,058 food packs and 47,413 hygiene kits to registered children and their families. Where possible, 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.

A Message From Compassion Thailand’s National Director

Hear from Harry Wathittayakul, National Director of Compassion Thailand, as he shares an update on how COVID-19 is affecting Compassion’s ministry in Thailand.

Recorded: 05/31/2020

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 even if centers are closed and letters and gifts are not being delivered, your child and his or her family are being checked in on regularly by staff. We all look forward to the day we will all be able to gather together again!

Are Compassion Centers Open?

Currently, all centers in Thailand are closed in order to abide by local guidelines. Staff members are working to create virtual programming activity, including videos and livestreams. 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 75,058 food packs and 47,413 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

As immigrants from nearby Myanmar, Tutu and her husband already struggled to find work and support their children. But when the pandemic struck, Tutu, who was 39 weeks pregnant, didn’t know what to do. Unable to afford food, the entire family was malnourished.

But as part of the Compassion program, Tutu received food packs from the local church. She also received emotional support as she neared her due date.

“The center staff came to visit me more often because I had to prepare for the birth,” says Tutu. “And it’s right at the same time the country announced the state of emergency.”

Tutu lived around 20 miles from the nearest hospital, and she was terrified she would have to give birth at home. But the day she went into labor, Compassion Survival Program workers were able to drive her to the hospital, where she gave birth to a healthy daughter, named Perada.

“I am so grateful when I see the center staff are coming to our house,” says Tutu. “Without their help with nutrition supplies, I would not have enough nutrition to be able to feed my newborn.”

How can I pray for Thailand?

This month, will you join us in praying for the many immigrants who live on the borders of Thailand? Many lack the benefits of citizenship and have little access to medical care. You can also visit Compassion’s COVID-19 prayer page for weekly global prayer guides.

How Can I Help?

Sponsor a Child in Thailand

Give to Compassion’s COVID-19 Relief Fund

Learn More >