Since 2014, Greater Good Charities has proudly partnered with Mae Tao Clinic, a cornerstone of healthcare and humanitarian support for displaced individuals on the Thai-Burma border. Together, we’ve delivered millions of meals, supported tens of thousands of safe births, and given hope to migrant families and children in crisis.
Founded by Dr. Cynthia Maung, Mae Tao Clinic opened its doors in 1989 in Mae Sot, Thailand. It began humbly as a small house treating student refugees fleeing Burma in 1988. Over the years, it has evolved into a vital medical and social service hub for over 150,000 patients annually. Serving people of all ethnicities and religions, Mae Tao Clinic offers free care to refugees, migrant workers, and internally displaced persons (IDPs)—with more than half crossing the border from Burma in search of safety and care.
Since 2014, Greater Good Charities has partnered with Mae Tao Clinic to provide food security, maternal care, education access, and emergency response:
One of the most powerful ongoing initiatives is supporting the Mae Tao Clinic’s Dry Food Program, which provides nutritious rations to thousands of children in boarding houses across IDP areas. These children, primarily from low-income families or conflict zones, are sent across the border by parents desperate to give them access to safe housing and education.
The food program isn’t just about meals—it ensures students stay in school, grow strong, and focus on a brighter future.
Saw Eh Htoo, Age 17
Future Goal: Become a Businessman
While living at the Child Development Center (CDC) boarding house, Saw dreams of becoming a businessman so he can give back to his family and community. Originally from Myawaddy Township, his family sent him across the border due to financial hardship. He appreciates the structure and safety of the boarding house, loves English, and finds purpose through music, football, and studying. Thanks to the Dry Food Program, he enjoys consistent, healthy meals and stays motivated to pursue his goals.
“If I could change the world, I would like all school-age children to attend school.”
Naw Hai Gay Moo, Age 13
Future Goal: Become a Teacher
Naw Hai, one of seven siblings, was sent to Thailand for education her parents couldn’t afford in Myanmar. She loves Thai, enjoys drawing, and has become confident through group activities and leadership training. She walks to school and thrives in the boarding house’s nurturing environment. She wants to use her education to teach and inspire other children one day.
“Doctor Cynthia Maung is the person I admire most because she helps people and shares love and kindness with others.”
Ma Hnin Yardanar Lwin, Age 6
Future Goal: Become a Teacher
Originally from Maw Be, Burma, Ma Hnin lives at the Hway Ka Loke boarding house while her mother struggles to survive on foraged food. Despite the separation, Ma Hnin is thriving with regular meals and access to school. She loves math and dreams of becoming a teacher to help other children like her.
Naw Eh Paw, Age 5
Future Goal: Become a Nun
Abandoned at birth, Naw Eh Paw was taken in by a monk who placed her in New Blood Boarding House. With no contact with her parents, she considers the children in the home her family. Her favorite subject is English, and she finds joy in swimming and jumping rope. The dry food support gives her the nutrition she needs to grow and learn safely.
Naw Paw Eh Moo, Age 19
Future Goal: Finish Her Education
She is the third of five siblings, but only Naw and her youngest sibling were able to continue their education. Her parents are farmers living in a remote village where access to school is limited by long distances and the high costs of tuition, dormitory housing, and daily necessities. Despite these challenges, Naw was able to travel to Thailand to attend Hsa Thoo Lei School, where she is now on track to complete her education.
Ongoing conflict, poverty, and instability continue to displace families and disrupt lives. Greater Good Charities’ partnership with Mae Tao Clinic provides a vital lifeline—ensuring access to health care, nutritious meals for children, safe births, education, and emergency support during times of crisis.
Together, we uphold Dr. Cynthia Maung’s vision: a world where care knows no borders and every person has the chance to survive and thrive.