Since 2007, our farming programme has provided farming education, short-term jobs, and sustainably sourced meals for the COF community. Our 23-acre farm produces rice, oil palm, rubber, turmeric, and a variety of vegetables alongside a growing durian orchard.

Each morning, the children help maintain the farm by tending to the garden, and a portion of the produce grown on our farm is used for their meals. The rest of the produce is sold, generating income to sustain the farm programme. Beyond food, the farm offers students hands-on experience with sustainable farming practises, preparing them for future employment opportunities.

At COF, we believe sports are vital in building self-confidence and self-esteem in children. Extracurricular activities like football, futsal, badminton, and running programmes help keep children safe and engaged beyond regular school hours, providing extra protection for vulnerable children. By promoting physical activity, we encourage the children we serve to lead healthy, confident lives.

“What began as an activity for fun and exercise soon became something much more. The stateless boys and girls, most from broken homes, found inspiration and belonging in the team environment. As non-citizens, day-to-day life for these children is harsh and unfair; exclusion and exploitation are the norm. Yet, on the football field, these children and young adults are given the chance to express that they are determined, confident, and, above all, equal.” - Daniel Hopson.

Our football programme began with a single dirt field and now serves over 100 students who actively engage in the sport. Players and all those under COF’s care take pride in the football programme, which is pivotal in developing their self-esteem. We now have 2 girls’ teams and 2 boys’ teams.  

Our COF United team is led by older children and care workers, and has developed a strong reputation in the area, with wins in tournaments across Kanchanaburi province.

Since 2013, we have organised an annual foot race in Sangkhlaburi. The “Run for Children’s Rights” features both 5-kilometre and 10-kilometre events. Its purpose is to raise awareness about children’s rights and promote Children of the Forest in the community.

The COF Art programme offers students a rich artistic education, focusing on drawing and painting. Guided by two dedicated art teachers, students have created various projects, from comic books to film documentaries. Like our other programmes, the arts programme promotes a strong sense of identity and cultural preservation by encouraging students to explore their Karen and Mon heritage through creative expression.

This programme has had a lasting impact on the community. Many students have become art teachers, sell their own artwork, or continue pursuing their passion for drawing and painting.

Stateless children often face travel restrictions, so COF strives to bring enriching experiences directly to them. Movies, including high-quality documentaries followed by discussions, have always played a significant role in our programmes. We also encourage children to share their stories, with filmmaking being one powerful medium. In the coming years, we plan to expand these opportunities and support even more storytelling through film.

Regular children’s trips are an important and exciting feature of life at COF. Almost every weekend involves visits to the jungle, rivers and local communities. Whilst providing fun and therapy, these excursions also help the children maintain a strong connection with their culture and environment. As an essential part of integrating into Thai society, COF also organises trips to the attractions and educational centres of the city. The highlight is the annual trip to the pristine beaches and clear blue waters of Thailand’s south. We believe new adventures and increased awareness of the world can lead to braver, more ambitious life goals.