Young Thai girl dreams of police career amid severe poverty
A heartrending story has emerged about a nine year old girl who dreams of becoming a police officer despite facing extreme poverty, often left hungry while waiting for her grandmother to return from hospital appointments.
The situation came to light after a Facebook user named ศรุต ธานินมงคล posted a picture of the girl, Ice, sitting outside her home, clutching her stomach in hunger as she awaited her grandmother’s return. The touching clip showed Ice expressing her hunger, having waited since morning for her 68 year old grandmother, Boonyong Saengchan who was at a hospital for a regular appointment. When a kind-hearted passerby noticed Ice’s predicament, they provided her with money for food and two bags of rice, which she gratefully accepted.
This story resonated with many online, prompting compassionate users to share the video widely, drawing attention to Ice’s plight. By yesterday evening, December 24, a group led by a monk from Wat Woraprot Sangkhawat, alongside volunteers, responded to the situation by delivering essential supplies to Ice and her grandmother. The volunteers brought rice, dry food, drinking water, and clothing to their home in Phanat Nikhom, Chon Buri, located behind an ice factory.
Upon arrival, they found Boonyong and Ice alone. Boonyong, who brought up Ice after her great-granddaughter was abandoned by her parents, was preparing rice porridge to eat with Ice. The monk and volunteers provided more supplies, ensuring they would have enough to eat in the coming days. Ice was visibly thrilled by the assistance, expressing joy as she accompanied the monk to a local store to buy fresh produce and cooking ingredients.
Boonyong’s financial situation is precarious, relying solely on a government allowance of 600 baht a month, which was later increased to 800 baht after local officials assessed their needs. Despite this, expenses for utilities and transportation often mean there’s little left for food. On some days, they manage with rice porridge, while on others, they have to make do with rice mixed with fish sauce.
Boonyong shared her gratitude with tears, expressing how the recent help has been overwhelming, as no one had ever offered such support before. She explained her regular visits to the hospital due to chronic health issues, leaving Ice to fend for herself at times. Ice, understanding the financial limitations, often skips breakfast and relies on free school lunches.
Despite these challenges, the young girl remains optimistic, dreaming of a future where she can become a police officer and support her grandmother. Her story has touched many, and those wishing to assist can contact Boonyong directly, reported KhaoSod.
The monk who organised the aid visit described the family’s situation as deeply saddening, urging any who wished to help to reach out. For those interested in supporting Ice and her grandmother, Boonyong can be reached at the phone number 094 869 1056.
