Relief in Myanmar: A Journey of Service and Sacrifice
- baanunrak5
- Aug 2
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 3
Up to this point, with some consistently unexpected assistance, we have continued to pursue our efforts in Myanmar. Following each mission, our volunteers had just one or two days of rest before heading back into the field. They were determined not to waste time—because now, time is invaluable.
There were times when we had no funds, but then came a blessing: a generous donation from GlobalGiving. Their support enabled us to build five basic houses—simple structures, yet enough to keep families safe during the monsoon season.
GlobalGiving extended its support to Maha Aung Myae Basic Education Primary School (34), which hosts 745 children. Previously, 500 of these children had to study in shifts due to the destruction of many classrooms. But this past Friday, our AMURTEL team from the Green Island School officially handed over five newly built classrooms to the school.
Currently, 250 students have their own dedicated learning spaces, and the whole school enjoys the advantages of better organization. Regular classes have restarted, making the best use of the facilities. This relief extended beyond just those 250 children, benefiting the entire school, as everyone had previously compromised on space and time to support each other.
The handover ceremony was a joyful and emotional moment. Our youngest volunteers came all the way from Yangon to celebrate. They brought with them songs, games, and pure joy. There is something incredibly moving when children help other children—when they connect through sharing and caring, it brings out the best in everyone.
The teachers and students of Maha Aung Myae were incredibly grateful. What amazed us most was that these young AMURTEL volunteers from the Green Island School were the very first to respond after the earthquake. Even though they had returned to their studies in June, they continued to support the mission. Whenever there was an opportunity to give, they came back to contribute with a genuine heart and dedication.
This time, they donated their own savings and pocket money to buy snacks for 428 students in the school. True service means sacrifice, and these children understand that. They may not have much, but their inspiration moves adults to action.
When the students had to return to school, their school director and several teachers stayed behind to continue the mission. Seeing the children's smiles made every effort worthwhile.
The teachers and headmaster from the Green Island School are true role models. They don’t just teach values—they live them. By doing so, they lead by example and shape a new generation of compassionate leaders.
All of us—Amurtel, Baan Unrak, GlobalGiving and our donors—are so grateful to the Green Island Team. Without the commitment, sincerity, and sacrifices of so many, our work would not have been possible.
In our last blog, we shared about the four houses built with GlobalGiving’s help. Now, we are proud to present the new classrooms—before and after, showing how a school of 745 students can continue its mission of educating young minds even in the aftermath of disaster.
We’d also love to show you the washroom that was built—now a vital resource where local families come to bathe, collect clean water, and wash their clothes. Thanks to the generosity of another Baan Unrak's sponsor, we were also able to build 3 additional houses.
Thanks to the generous support from GlobalGiving, the impact on the community has been truly transformative:
5 classrooms built, providing children with a safe and supportive space to learn and grow
1 washroom constructed, offering families a clean and reliable place for daily hygiene and water access
5 homes built, giving vulnerable families a secure place to live and rebuild their lives
The Countdown
After the emergency relief phase, we shifted to a deeper intervention—building basic houses for displaced families.
Following an assessment of over 10,000 families in the vulnerable regions of Maha Aung Myae and Chanmyatharzi, we identified 78 homes urgently needed constructing. As of July 30, we have successfully completed 14 homes, along with the reconstruction of a school, a lavatory, and toilet facilities. However, 64 homes are still required and these families are still waiting for a safe place to call home.
The good news: several of our incredible donors have stepped up with new pledges to support future housing:
10 houses – GlobalGiving
3 houses – Baan Unrak UK Sponsor
2 houses – AMURT Italy
Thanks to these commitments, the number of homes still needed will soon drop to 49 and the countdown will then begin. Together, we’re getting closer to ensuring every family has a safe and stable home.
We’ve come to understand the value of even a single donor, even one house. If we find 49 more people willing to donate $1,600 USD, we can complete the second phase of our relief efforts in Maha Aung Myae and Chanmyatharzi.
Only then will we feel we’ve truly done our best—only then will we allow ourselves to rest.
You can help us continue our work by donating directly to Baan Unrak Foundation:
Or, if you prefer, you can contribute to AMURT Italia:
Or, if you prefer, you can contribute to AMURT UK:
With love and gratitude,
Baan Unrak Team 🌿💛
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