Daniel spent nine years at House of Hope. He now volunteers there to help other children who were forced to flee from their homes.

MAE HONG SON, Thailand – Traveling under the cover of night, Daniel and a small group of other children spent more than two months running from the Burma Army.

For years, his family would take refuge in the deep jungle, hiding out until the solders left their village. Distraught by the life their son was forced to live and knowing he was unable to get proper education, Daniel's family helped him escape.

At 10 years old, he left with only what he could carry, saying goodbye to his parents.

Two months later, Daniel, along with 15 other boys arrived at a temple in Thailand, where they found help. The group was eventually taken to House of Hope, a children's home supported by Operation Blessing.

The home provides a safe haven where children can find security and hope for a better future. In addition, the children are given an education and taught valuable life skills.

Recently, OBI helped upgrade the building by installing new water storage tanks, which are used for bathing and cleaning purposes. Other monthly assistance enables the school to buy rice and cooking oil for the 45 children who call House of Hope their permanent home.

"If I didn't come here, I don't know where I would be or if I would even be alive," Daniel said. "Thanks for taking me in."

Daniel spent nine years at the House and now attends adult study classes at a local school. During the week, he returns to House of Hope and helps the staff with school and other chores.

The House of Hope is a children's home supported by OBI. The home has 45 children who live there.

Daniel said he hopes to one day become a teacher and return to his village to help educate the people who still live there. Ultimately, he would like to be reunited with his family.

Another boy who arrived in a similar fashion to Daniel is Andrew. After living at the home for eight years, the 16-year-old says he can look back and see how the House changed his life.

"This place helped me become a better person," he said. "I am one of the few blessed people that have had the chance to be here so I hope I can one day return the blessing to my own people."

 

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