VISIT TO NANCY GAGE (SSS BANGKOK)
I was most impressed by the work done by the Gages who have spent 16 years in Thailand. Not being familiar with Cckenden's stand on orphanages, especially overseas, I could only say that it would be a matter for discussion on my return to U.K.
I am, however, of the opinion that Ockendon could pursue this avenue of practical help for the handicapped children, and would like to investigate the possibility of our becoming involved in that area where there is 2 great and long term need, especially in the deprived areas.
I have in fact asked Steve Salmon to discover if there are such cases in the Hilltribe villages we support.
There was a programme in Chiang-Rai (North of Nan) which has been temporarily abandoned due to: (a) lack of funding, and (b) loss of its director who had to return to U.K. following a stroke last year.
Recommendations:-
It would seem that we could be of use in the North, tying up
(a) help to OHI in Chiang Kham,
continuing support for Hilltribes, and
help to handicapped children in Chiang-Rai.
All could be embraced by the office in Nan for visiting purposes.
The opening of an office in Bangkok could only be justified if Ockenden were involved in several projects, alternatively its justification could be sustained should Ockenden decide to expand its operations in the Far East to embrace for instance the Phillipines and Hong Kong, and maybe Lacao? Also see my remarks on Laos and Kampuchea.
Page 195Page 196