Letter from a Monastic Volunteer

The following letter was submitted by one of the members of our ground team who has been overseeing the donation process to monastic schools.

Dear friends and supporters,

We want to shed light on the critical situation faced by the IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) children in Myanmar, particularly those affected by the ongoing conflict in regions such as Sagaing, Magway, Mandalay, and Bago. These children have limited options for safe homes and community schools, with monastic schools and nunnery schools being their only refuge.

The compassionate monks and nuns who lead these monastic and nunnery sites hail mostly from the Anyar Region, around Sagaing, as the children's native areas have unfortunately turned into combat zones following the military coup over two years ago. These dedicated individuals have selflessly brought these vulnerable children to their monastic sites in Mandalay Region, known for its relative peace and stability, providing them not only with accommodation but also with education.

The monastic schools and nunnery schools have long endured challenges and exhibited incredible perseverance and philanthropy, despite past administrations, particularly the military regimes from 1962 to 2010, failing to acknowledge and support their efforts. These admirable institutions were even subjected to interference and disruption by dictators of the past.

During the democratic transition, we were cautiously optimistic as we witnessed a brief respite for these respected monastic schools and nunnery schools. However, this glimmer of hope has once again faded away. In these dark times, we are genuinely grateful for any help we can provide to support these invaluable educational institutions.

To all the donors who have generously contributed, whether it be a single penny (or kyat) or more, we cannot adequately express our deep appreciation and gratitude! Your contributions have made a tangible difference in the lives of these children, giving them hope for a brighter future.

Now, more than ever, we appeal to your compassionate hearts to stand with us and help these monastic and nunnery schools through this challenging chapter in Myanmar's history. Together, we can provide these children with a ray of hope and ensure they receive the education they deserve.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.