Som Nang’s Story

Som Nang is from a family of 4 girls!

Growing up, Som Nang’s father was violent and eventually her mum left the family to go and work in another province. She left the 4 girls with their father and re-married.

Som Nang and her sisters worked as harvest workers at the Thai border. One day, when she was just 14 years old, her own father raped her. He continued to rape her until she fell pregnant, eventually giving birth to a son.

Som Nang’s father was arrested and sentenced to 7 years in prison and her mother returned, with her new husband and child, to look after the 4 girls again.

Som Nang was referred by the government to Hagar to get support. A Hagar counselor and case manager were assigned to work with her and by receiving Hagar’s recovery services, she has begun to overcome her trauma and heal.

Hagar has also partner edwith other relevent stakholders, including local authorities and NGO partners, to make sure the family are safe and that Som Nang is in a stable environment.  Last year, for example, the family home was falling down due to flooding and the family were living in a tent and in the shelter for chickens. After an assessment, it was clear the family needed a new home and Hagar has worked with another organization partner to share the cost. Hagar contributed about 60%, and our partner shared 40%, for material costs and the family, and local authorities, helped to build the home.

In 2022, with support from Hagar, Som Nang was able to start a grocery business. This business is running well and she hopes to expand this business in the future so that she can earn more money to support her son.

“I am so grateful with my business even if it is still small, but it helps me to stay with my son… I feel confident in managing my business and I plan to expand my business so that I can earn more money for supporting my son’s education.” 

Hagar will continue to work with this family intensively going forward and will keep walking with Som Nang through her recovery. Hagar staff have already noted the improvement in Som Nang’s mental health and how much more comfortable she feels. Som Nang said of Hagar: 

“Hagar give my life back. Hagar staff help me stand up and get out from the dark shadow, to think about my future and my son. I got justice, new home and new life…to the Hagar team… thank you very much.”

Som Nang is truly an example of what the long-term love and support of Hagar donors and staff can achieve in a person’s life. Together, we have seen transformation!