From Refuge to Resilience: The Story of the Mother and Baby Home

The Mother and Baby Home, run by Sr Chalaad and the Good Shepherd Sisters, is in good health, as they continue to provide further life-giving support to many women coming from all parts of Thailand.

Created in 1972 and locally known as Baan Sukruthai, it offers a temporary refuge to expectant mothers or those who have recently given birth, who have no support systems in place or who come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“Since these mothers have received service from the home, they have self-confidence to make decisions to do what they want for their life and will not stay under the struggle of domestic violence situations,” said Sr Chalaad, the Project Director.

As they develop a new, positive outlook on life, they are also learning about their role as a parent, ensuring they develop the skills to take care of their newborn. The Centre provides them with accommodation and nutritious food, as well as basic staples to take care of their children such as milk powder, diapers, and other essential items.

The Sisters have recently ordered additional delivery beds to ensure mothers-to-be are comfortable and feel supported during their pregnancy. However, the work of the Sisters is not limited to the Centre; they also provide life-giving support to at-home mothers around the centre to ensure that everyone is cared for.

“Through the work Sr Chalaad and the Good Shepherd Sisters accomplish every day, they are helping women who had no one to turn to. Their life-giving work is a light of hope for many,” said Fr Brian Lucas, Catholic Mission National Director.