Daklak – Phu Yen – Gia Lai Province

1. Cu Prao Town, M’Drak District, Dak Lak Province, July 5, 2019

Cu Prao Town, located in the M’Drak district of Dak Lak province, is a purely agricultural community producing crops like sugarcane, beans, cassava, and maize. Situated in one of Daklak’s most remote areas, it experiences extended rainy seasons, leading to significant crop damage. Such hardships result in lost incomes, affecting children’s access to essentials. Schools are distant, and roads and bridges often flood during the winter, impacting ethnic groups like the Ede, Tay, and Nung.

Despite being in a crowded space with over a thousand people, there was excitement and anticipation to receive gifts from the TMT FOUNDATION. The innocent smiles of the children, who are still in need, left a lasting impression on us both materially and spiritually.

2. Phu Mo Town, Dong Xuan District, Phu Yen Province, July 6, 2019

Awakening at 2 AM, we drove eight hours to reach Phu Mo Town. The joy of the locals upon seeing the TMT FOUNDATION’s car was palpable. Their gratitude reminded us that our efforts were worthwhile. During conversations, families shared that their meals often consist of rice with salt, chili, and wild vegetables, with meat and fish being rare. We hope our gifts provided some relief.

3. Kon Chiang Town, Mang Yang District, Gia Lai Province, July 6, 2019

Kon Chiang, a remote town in Gia Lai province, bears the scars of war, mainly inhabited by the Ba Na ethnic group. The journey was challenging, requiring a trailer to navigate deep swamps. However, the warm reception we received made it worthwhile. Children were thrilled with new school supplies and food, sharing their hardships candidly. After receiving gifts, they performed traditional dances, showcasing their rich culture amid material scarcity. Around a bonfire, they danced with us, sharing special cuisines like grilled chicken with lam rice and boiled cassava.

4. Leper Village, Dak To, H’Rave Town, Mang Yang District, Gia Lai Province, July 7, 2019

This village, affected by wartime toxins, consists of leprosy victims facing various hardships but unified by poverty and suffering. Despite disabilities, their optimism is commendable. We handed out sweets to the children, many barefoot in worn clothes, hoping to return with new clothing. Like everyone, they aspire to normalcy, education, family life, but currently, these remain distant dreams.

5. Buu Chau Pagoda, Pleiku, Gia Lai, July 7, 2019

Home to 53 orphans, Buu Chau Pagoda shelters children abandoned at birth, now cared for by nuns. Hearing their stories, we felt profound sadness. Many newborns lie in iron cradles, deserving of better futures. We hope their biological parents realize the blessing these children are and regret abandoning them when witnessing their resilience.