About

After the coup in Burma (Myanmar), many people had to flee -from towns and cities, but also in rural areas where the Burma army launched air and land attacks. Among those displaced were pregnant women - many of whom had nothing to aid their deliveries. Early photos of the displacement showed a newborn baby in the jungle, wrapped up with the father’s old piece of longyi. One pregnant woman delivered a baby on the bank of the Salween River, unable to enter Thailand. Unfortunately, she died after the birth of complications. Another woman forced to flee had a miscarriage due to the circumstances. She was brought to Thailand but did not receive treatment soon enough and tragically died.

These deaths were easily preventable. The problem is that pregnant women are being forcibly displaced from their homes in Burma. Without proper shelter, supplies, and medical understanding, many women and infants face significant health issues, if not death. The maternity bag project aims to help people who are in hiding and constantly on the run. Many communities have been living in fear since the civil war began in Burma over 70 years ago. During this time, many women and unborn children are suffering and dying.

The birth kits help families by encouraging better health and providing assistance during delivery. The project seeks to decrease infant mortality and increase healthy delivery practices through proper education. The birth kits are delivered to health centers and clinics at each distribution. This will encourage pregnant women to seek advice from health professionals and receive necessary health information for both the baby and the mother. The program also provides kits to different needy areas, including partners in various Karen brigades, Mon districts, and Karenni districts. Above all, the Bright Star and THR5VE team would like to share love and care to newly born babies and hope for their parents, especially during this time of struggle and suffering in Burma.