Roche helps disadvantaged kids in Thailand and Malawi
Roche Diagnostics (Thailand) and Roche Thailand recently joined up for the 14th edition of the “Roche Children’s Walk”, raising an impressive Bt940,000 donation from employees and the company for children in Malawi and Thailand.
Every year, Roche sites all over the world take part in the Roche Children’s Walk, which was launched back in 2003 on the concept “Walk Today for a Better Tomorrow”. More than 200,000 Roche employees in 70 countries commit to this annual fundraising effort, the proceeds of which are allocated to health and education projects for children in 90 countries worldwide, including Thailand. Additionally, Roche doubles the donation raised by employees as part of the contribution.
“This campaign initiates from employees’ intention to help and give back to society. We understand the significance of children development, both in Thailand and Malawi in South Africa, which is among the least developed countries with the highest poverty rate in the world. We want better quality lives for them.” explains Pichetpong Srisuwankul, managing director.
Philippe Meyer, general manager, adds that this event instils the company’s employees with a sense of giving. “Last year, one of our employees was selected to visit projects in Africa supported by Roche. She shared with us the profound experience of ‘giving’ and the lives of children in Malawi. This enriches our corporate culture and makes it a better place.”
Roche donated half of the amount to Father Ray Foundation, a 43-year-old foundation established by Father Raymond Allyn Brennan. The foundation helps and raises more than 900 less fortunate children and disabled individuals of different ages, ranging from infants, children, teenagers, to adults. The remainder will go to philanthropic projects in Malawi.
Aside from the donation, volunteers also brought smiles to young faces by participating in activities with children from the Father Ray Foundation.
Three boys from the Centre for Children with Special Needs performed a talent show and were followed on stage by a chorus and guitarist from the Pattaya Redemptorist School for the Blind. The shows brought joy to more than 70 Roche managers and employees as well as 141 children from the Father Ray Day Care Centre and Centre for Children with Special Needs.
“I had so much fun especially when my friends sing. I also enjoyed the t-shirt painting session because I get to express my creativity. I wish you would visit again. Thank you very much for taking the time to visit us. Please visit us again” said 19-year-old Thakrit Paiboonwuttichoke, a youngster with multiple disabilities.
“Today is like every day but I’m happier because I get to meet all of you and play. I like to paint, it’s fun. I hope that you all come back again because I love you. Please visit us again,” added Jessada Kiewkajee, 13.
“Raising a child is not only the family’s responsibility, it is also up to friends, school, media, and society. All affect child development at different age groups. The Foundation takes part in helping the children and disabled to find self-esteem and experience good quality living,” said Rev Pattarapong Srivorakul, president of the Father Ray Foundation.
“I wish to thank Roche for supporting the Foundation. If you want to further support us, you can also donate other necessities, we have more than 10 projects. It will help us improve our care for the children with love and provide them with the necessities of life, social skills, as well as education. We prepare them for a career within their capabilities in the future.”
