Established in 2012, the Thet San Yay Clinic, run by the Sisters of Charity, has been providing the local community with quality healthcare and medical treatment regardless of religion or ethnic identity. Many of the families come from disadvantaged backgrounds, and if not for this clinic, would be unable to access healthcare elsewhere.
Operating on the same grounds as the convent of St Gemma’s Parish, there were a few critical changes required to help improve the clinic, including:
Despite the challenges of COVID-19 and the ongoing political conflict in Myanmar, the project was completed successfully.
Gathering for Mass and community with fellow brothers and sisters in Christ is an important aspect of living our faith, however for the parish of St Gemma Galgani in the township of Shwe Pyi Thar in northern Yangon, this was becoming difficult, especially during times of heavy rain and monsoon.
The road to the church was often muddy, with cars and motorbikes unable to travel along it, sometimes for months on end. Parish priest Fr John Sui knew that action must be taken so that his community would be able to access the church year-round.
This project aimed create a concrete road and parking area for all types of vehicles to access the church. Initiated by Fr John Sui, and continued by incoming parish priest, Fr Paul Aung Myint Win, this road aims to allow safe access to St Gemma’s parish for the community, irrespective of inclement weather.
Construction of the road and carpark was halted for four months due to the monsoon season, and workers have been difficult to find due to concerns around COVID-19, however some of the local youths came to work alongside the hired workers to support this project.
The project has also been affected by the political instability, with the entrance to the church grounds still to be finished. The date for this is not yet known, but the materials have been purchased.
Located in the heart of Yangon is a church-run hostel for young women from rural areas who have come to the city to receive vocational training in careers such as nursing. This hostel, run by the Sisters of St Francis Xavier, provides a safe home for many women during their studies, however there was a need for renovations.
From basic updates such as repainting the rooms, through to critical changes such as new kitchen and bathroom facilities, along with proper doors and windows, the hostel has been updated to ensure that these women feel safe and have a clean and pleasant place to live while they continue their studies.
There were a few challenges faced, but overcome, during this project. COVID-19 restrictions impacted the renovation timeline, repairs needed that were initially outside of the project scope, and finding affordable skilled workers.
Disappointingly, with the recent political strife and the ongoing threat of COVID-19, there are less women from rural areas coming to the city for study, but it is hoped that this number will increase again in the future.
