Children in Myanmar are born into uncertainty in a backdrop of ongoing conflict, displacement, and instability. Since the military coup in 2021, violence has intensified across the country, forcing entire communities to flee their homes and leaving millions without access to basic safety, education, and healthcare.

In many conflict-affected regions, particularly in ethnic areas such as Karen State, families face impossible choices. Most households feel the pressure to send a son to join the resistance as part of the fight for freedom and basic human rights. Yet the cost is devastating. Young people, some as young as 14, are drawn into conflict, and may never return. Others come home impaired with no long-term medical support. A one-time compensation of THB 8,000 is given to a disabled soldier we once knew, for his return to his parents to be cared for, for life.

As such, many young people seeks to leave by journeying across the border into Thailand in search of safety, stability, and the chance to continue their education. Mae Sot, a border town, has become a refuge for thousands, but is also struggling to bear the weight of the rising number of needs. While the Thai government does not formally recognise these children as citizens or refugees in the full sense, it has allowed migrant learning centres and schools to operate in Mae Sot. These schools have become lifelines, providing education, structure, and a sense of hope in the midst of displacement.

It all began in 2024 with two simple initiatives: supporting the Child for Christ Dormitory in Mae La Refugee Camp, and contributing to leadership training at Kawthoolei Hope Theological Seminary. Our goal was simple then - to respond to immediate needs for safety and shelter, and to nurture growth in knowledge, character, and hope rather than allow futures to be defined by conflict.

Since then, the work has grown beyond what we first imagined. Today, Living Water runs 3 projects concurrently:

• Three children’s dormitories, providing safe housing and daily care

• Scholarships for more than 10 students pursuing further education

• Leadership and outreach training programs impacting five schools and colleges

Much has been accomplished but the need remains immense. Every month, more young people arrive in Mae Sot, carrying stories of loss, resilience, and determination for a better future.

As we look ahead, we are prayerfully calling for individuals, families, churches, and small groups to consider stepping out in faith to adopt and take leadership of one, or maybe all of these projects. Together, we can give these young people an alternative path, one that is marked by education, dignity, and opportunity, rather than fear and conflict.

As I begin to prepare for transition and eventual exit from the border work by 2030, my hope is to see this work firmly anchored with committed partners who share this vision.

We would love for you to be part of this journey. If you feel a stirring in your heart to consider this call to respond, why not have a chat with me? (No harm & no obligation 😃) Or consider joining one of the trips that are planned for the rest of this year, where we are actively looking for more participants and trainers.

Come join us in making a lasting difference while you & I still can.

Kianleong 22 June 2026