The tsunami of 2004 has become a distant memory for many, but the reality of rebuilding affected communities are close to the hearts of thousands, still, today. Seizing the lives of two-thirds of its population, the tsunami devastated the village of Baan Nam Kem in Phang Nga province, 70 miles north of Phuket, leaving behind ruins and remnants of a nightmare.
Years after the natural disaster, relief missions are starting to pack up and leave, with hope that the community will be able to develop and progress with time, on its own. In the heart of the township stands a center, however, that is committed to being part of Nam Kem’s recovery and development in the long haul – the New Light Community Development Center (CDC), Baan Nam Kem.
Under the jurisdiction of The New Light Foundation, and officially opened 26 April 2006, the erection of this hub in the village saw the locals being part of its construction; their involvement not only provided them with the financial assistance they needed to deal with the difficult period, it also allowed the locals to be part of the team responsible for creating a place that would eventually become a focal point and meeting place for the community.
The New Light CDC aims to aid and walk alongside Nam Kem’s recovery, committed to the long-term development of the community. A coalition of organizations and many volunteers from all over the world have already joined the New Light CDC in this venture, partnering up in the fulfilling of this mission.
Yet, the work here is not done.
Baan Nam Kem, a village that thrives mainly on its fishing industry, has much potential to grow and progress into a pristine community, a hamlet where every individual has the opportunity to quality education and skills upgrading.
The New Light CDC runs a bilingual learning centre for the Thais and the children of migrant families. In addition, there are social enterprise projects that provides job opportunities for some of the residents. Our Free Meal Program now reaches 200 children. Since 2015, we have a 4-storey building that functions as an Education and Training Center as well as a tsunami evacuation location.
As the world chugs on in progress, and more and more events sway our attention from what is now history, let us not forget the hidden communities that still suffer and grapple with the difficult task of development and rebuilding. Let us then, who are able and willing, participate in this exciting journey of development with Baan Nam Kem.