Ba Chieu Home - Starting Blocks Fund
The Ba Chieu Home serves as a sanctuary for homeless and disadvantaged girls in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
These girls come from various backgrounds, including orphans, those with ill or impoverished parents, and victims of maltreatment. Many were found living in dire conditions, such as sleeping in the market and selling lottery tickets or scavenging in rubbish dumps. Once at home, the girls at Ba Chieu Home receive crucial support. They have a safe place to live, three nutritious meals daily, and nurturing carers. Education plays a pivotal role in shaping their future, and the Home ensures they go to school - something not accessible to those on the street. The girls gain an education and form bonds with their peers, creating a sense of belonging and support.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the girls and staff at Ba Chieu Home successfully adapted to online learning, ensuring their education continued. Their determination and resilience were evident as they all passed their exams, allowing them to progress academically.
Support for the Ba Chieu Home comes from various sources, including VinaCapital, a variety of kiwi donors with an interest in Vietnam, and a longstanding partnership with Kings College. Ba Chieu Home co-founder, Celia Caughey, has facilitated business trips for students to Asia, introducing them to Ho Chi Minh City and the Ba Chieu Home. These visits have been highly impactful, with students considering them the highlight of their trips. The New Zealand Embassy has supported the Ba Chieu Home with various projects, including a sewing room, a computer room and the addition of a living room, allowing for more accessible hosting and for the girls to have more spaces for activities.
Administered by the HCMC Women's Charity Association, the Ba Chieu Home provides a nurturing haven for homeless and disadvantaged girls. Through educational opportunities and a supportive environment, these girls are empowered to overcome their challenging circumstances, dream and build brighter futures. Today many of the first girls through the home are now in their 30s with good jobs and families of their own.
Image above: Minister O'Connor, Ambassador Matthews, Trade Commissioner Karlene Davis, WOCA President Mrs Huong and former Vice President Mrs Thanh with the girls, 2019.
