Bai Fern: The Girl Who Found Her Future in a New Home

With no one available to care for her, Bai Fern was left in the care of her aunt, a neighbour who stepped in—but even that was never a long-term solution. Eventually, Bai Fern came to Baan Than Namchai, a home supported by Hands Across the Water. What began as a daunting separation soon blossomed into something far more powerful: belonging.

“At first, I was scared to be away from my mum,” she says. “But once I got here, I felt happier. I had friends. I wasn’t lonely anymore.”

From that point on, things began to shift. Hands gave her not only shelter and safety, but a sense of family and possibility. She received consistent support—emotionally, academically, and practically. With school supplies, a safe place to sleep, nourishing food, and encouragement from the staff, Bai Fern began to thrive.

“I’ve had the chance to study, and I’m not sure that would’ve happened if I stayed with my mum. I would’ve worried every day about whether we had enough money for school,” she says.

Today, Bai Fern is part of a competitive science-math program—one of the more challenging academic tracks in her school. She remembers feeling anxious about keeping up with her classmates at first, but she pushed through.

“I’m proud of how hard I’ve worked. I never thought I could do this, but now I know I can.”

The support of the Hands community—and especially the staff at BTN—has made all the difference. She describes them as more than just mentors or caretakers. They are her family.

“Family, to me, means the people who support you, who love you no matter what,” she reflects. “It’s not just about who you’re related to. It’s about who shows up for you.”

Some of her most treasured memories are from the Hands community: the bike rides, her trip to Australia in 2023, and the endless small moments that built her confidence. Each experience layered strength and purpose into her path.