An important focus of the Eat, Think, Achieve Enrichment Program is providing support for orphans who are victims of HIV/AIDS, by ensuring they receive well-rounded nutrition and emotional care.
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| Pim (center) lost her mother to HIV when she was just 5 years old. In spite of being partially deaf she loves learning new things |
Children receive free HIV medication from the state, and FDSC helps supply healthy vegetables and fruit toward their nutritional needs |
Poor nutrition is a common complication of HIV infection because it weakens an already poor immune system, slows growth and can speed the infection process. Having access to highly-nutritious foods is therefore an important part of the treatment process.
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| Children are happy to help unload this seasonal, local fruit, just in time for dinner! |
Denis directing the unloading of blankets as well as the regular food delivery |
Of course, one of the children’s biggest needs is personal attention and love.
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| Volunteer “Nick the Magician” performs for the kids at a Christmas party |
Another volunteer, Yui spends a quiet moment reading with two boys |
FDSC facilitated setting up a small library at one orphanage. Sponsors pitched in to help build the shelves, put in fans, desks and a computer, while local families donated many of the books.
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| Linda, who herself lives with HIV, cares for the orphanage library |
The children enjoy reading a variety of books in English and Thai |
For four consecutive years FDSC has been the recipient of a special award in recognition of its work with HIV/AIDS children in Chiang Mai.
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| Sally, with representatives from 9 other Northern provinces who also work with HIV/AIDS issues |
Young HIV orphan putting a bracelet on Darika’s wrist that she just learned how to make |