Urban Neighbours of Hope are a small, responsive neighbourhood-based team who live and serve the community in Khlong Toey, one of the poorest areas of Bangkok. They partner with a local Montessori Preschool, Grapongdeang, at the Khlong Toey Community Centre.
Year 1 have supported Urban Neighbours of Hope and the students of Grapongdeang for over 6 years through fundraising projects and giving books at Christmas time.
The school endured a long period of closure due to the pandemic but are open again now. Last year, Year 1 helped to fundraise money to replace the old school roof and update the kitchens and toilets. This work is due to start as soon as the rains stop.
This year, Urban Neighbours of Hope plan to install new playground equipment in the outside space to encourage movement and the physical development of their students. Year 1 will use their fundraising efforts to support this important development.
Also run by Urban Neighbours of Hope, Roy Rak is a fair trade initiative that helps local women make beautiful, ornate jewellery. Now Covid restrictions are lifted, Roy Rak are able to offer workshops, tours and even birthday party activities. Please find them at royrak.org or on their Instagram page.
If you are able to support
UNoH please contact Lish Faulkner at alisha@unoh.org.
Here is the link to up to date photos of Grapongdeang school and Royrak jewellery.