Blue Dragon has built hundreds of safe, sturdy homes for families across Vietnam. Like with An, these houses provide a foundation for children to thrive at school and lead their families into a better future.

Life in the storm

“For all my years, I never dared to think that in my old age, with my hair turning white, my husband, our grandson and I would ever live in a solid house like this.”Thuong has spent her whole life in fear of storms. They roll over the ocean and sweep through her village several times a year, taking houses, roads and bridges with them.

For Thuong, that was just how life worked. When the first signs of a storm began to rumble in the distance, she grabbed what she needed and ran for high ground. Then she rebuilt the house as best she could and went about her life until the next one hit.

There was no reason for her to think that cycle would ever change.

Thuong at home.

Take shelter

Thuong was born in 1959 and has lived in the same community her whole life. She got married and had children there, and 15 years ago she became a grandmother to a boy named An.

When An’s parents moved south to look for work, she and her husband began raising him as their own son. Because of their age and failing health, they are unable to work long hours. The little income they earn comes from raising a small group of chickens in their home.

Their house is in a low-lying area of the village that is particularly vulnerable to flooding. The walls were cracked, the roof leaked, and their food was lost to dampness every rainy season. They sometimes lived in floodwater for days on end, piling furniture high to save it from water damage.

Take the lead

Blue Dragon learned about Thuong’s situation when we went door to door making home visits in storm-prone areas last year. While she and her husband were a little wary at first, they eventually asked if we could help them.  

We immediately began rebuilding their home with sturdy walls, a strong roof, lots of space and plenty of air flow. With Thuong’s family, friends and neighbours joining the effort, their new home was soon ready. They are now safe from storms and dampness, and An has more space to study in his free time. 

“My grandma and I worked together to carry the sacks of rice, the winter blankets, and the warm clothes up to the loft,” he shares. “I’m so happy.” 

An’s excitement is showing in his school feedback. When his teachers told Thuong how much livelier he’s been since they began living in their new home, she was overjoyed. 

Our next step is to provide Thuong with equipment to raise pigs in a storm proof shelter beside their home. This will give them the steady income they need to make sure An can finish school and lead their family out of poverty.