We went out to the village after hearing about 21 kids being intercepted on the way to being trafficked. Earlier I posted that they were rescued from a brothel. Later it turns out they were on the way to the brothel but were staying in the village on the way. Four COSA volunteers (including Mickey) headed out to the village to interview each kid, asking their name, where they are from, who brought them here and any other questions that Mickey felt were necessary. The interview will not be extensive asking too many detailed questions. The starting point is to get a case for each child and to see if any other siblings in the household might be at risk for being trafficked. We took medical supplies and water to the hilltribe.
The drive up to the villages is four hours. During the four hours, we were able to get to know each other better. We listened to some old rock music and drove past some beautiful scenery.
We stopped by the home of the Community Leader. The community leader’s home is also a safe house for the girl in front of Mickey. She is waiting for COSA to have the ability to take her in permanently. Since COSA is working on getting prepared still, and they want to ensure she stays in school, COSA pays for the cost of her to go to school. I’m sure there is additional money for food and shelter. I didn’t get the details on that.
We were deep in the hills and there are no paved roads. We had to drive for about an hour in off-road conditions. Sometimes it wasn’t so bad and at others… well see below.
On the way up we got stuck in that mud. Luckily, it wasn’t raining when we went but it had just rained quite a bit. There was some flooding in that region prior to my arrival to Thailand.
As soon as we arrive, we get prepared to interview the survivors. The goal to get as much done before it gets dark. Many of the kids are staying in the school for temporary housing. Since they only had the clothes they were wearing and no other items, the school gave them uniforms to wear in the meantime.
Sleeping area. Later we did use the mosquito net. (my first time). The tree house you see is the dining room. We ate here and also interviewed the survivors here.
When we got back to the shelter, we had dinner and the girls played. Tonight is my last night and I’m sad. I’m sad to say bye to the girls when they have helped me have such a wonderful meaningful memories.
I slept in the girls house for my last night! We didn’t stay up and play or sit and talk. I just liked the shared space and that they let me into their lives.
They wanted to see me off to the airport! So some of the girls hopped on the back of the truck to send me off. I’ll miss you girls!
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