FAREopp : Fighting Poverty with Fair Trade

While her boyfriend, Yu, rescued survivors and recovered bodies in the aftermath of the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami in Thailand, Tory Ansuwan worked in the donation centre sorting clothes. “That was what it actually took for me to realize how lucky I am and that there are so many ways that I can help people in need, even without a penny to my name.”

With their lives changed forever by their experiences, Tory and Yu, now her husband, moved to Canada and decided to take action to help others in Thailand less fortunate than themselves. In 2008, as newly weds their first step was to “give up some of their luxuries” to pay for schooling for Yu’s niece, Nong May.
"Nong May’s mother has been in and out of the hospital for years, with a rare blood disorder. The money the family earns is barely enough for either the schooling or the blood transfusions. Imagine having to choose between your loved one's survival and your young child's education?” says Tory.

Nong May with her mother

From these simple beginnings, Tory and Yu realised they could do more. They now run a business supporting their charity, FAREopp (Financial Aid & Resources for Educational Opportunities). FAREopp has a strong one to one focus, helping individuals out of situations that are keeping them in poverty. For example, helping with funds for a parent’s surgery, or children’s schooling, or providing someone with the support and coaching they need to start a business of their own.


Kindergarten class supported by FAREopp

One of FAREopp’s initiatives connects people with artists in Thailand who teach them how to create their own pieces. FAREopp then helps them to sell their goods in a fair way, enabling people to take control of their own lives. Tory’s favourite pieces are their wood carved games, puzzles and pencils. “They are unique, eco-friendly, educational, artistic and fun. They make great gifts and are a fun toy for schools as well as coffee tables, waiting rooms and offices.”


Wooden Pencils

There is no waiting around for Tory and Yu. In the short time that FAREopp has been up and running, they have helped many people, including Mrs. Pee Yooung who now has a laundromat, receiving her first customers at the start of October 2010. Mrs. Yoong now volunteers with FAREopp to help others.

Mr and Mrs Pee Booung were also helped by FAREopp to turn their home into a restaurant, so that they can continue to support their son who suffered hearing loss caused by polluted water.

In the cruel twist of fate that comes with living in a country with little or no social net, FAREopp's biggest inspiration, Yu’s mum, Mrs Ansuwan, now could not survive without FAREopp's help.
"She should be crowned and recognized as a hero, being one of Thailand’s first female police officers, but instead is another victim of unfair wages,” says Tory. Due to health complications that came with turning 80years old in a poor area of Thailand, Mrs. Ansuwan can no longer work at her restaurant. FAREopp is donating 10% of proceeds to help Mrs. Ansuwan live a healthier and worry-free retirement.


Yu and Mrs. Answan in her restaurant

With such a personal connection to their work, Tory and Yu’s passion for what they do is unmistakable. “Nong May is now top of her class!” says Tory.

What better measure of success?

But they are far from done. The personal connection Tory and Yu have with those they help continues to drive their passion. They have big plans to continue to expand their Fair trade business. “Spreading the word about FAREopp helps tremendously,” says Tory. “For me, it took a devastating tsunami to realize I can help, but some people are fortunately only waiting for a vehicle like FAREopp to jump on board and have an impact.”

Jump on board and send Tory and Yu a note to show your appreciation for their great work. Trust me, a little connection with that passion, and it’s hard not to feel inspired.


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