A Friendly Soccer Game with the Anh Dao and Thien Tam Orphanages

In May 2025 we had a very special visit to the Anh Dao Orphanage. Our coordinators Loan and Nhan coordinate our monthly visits to both the Anh Dao Orphanage and the Thien Tam Orphanage. They have observed that the teenage boys at both orphanages will often go to the grassy fields behind their orphanages and play barefoot soccer (football). Loan and Nhan asked the caretakers if the boys would like to have a game with the other orphanage, and they thought it sounded very fun.

Our team made all the preparations to bring the boys from Thien Tam with them when they made their regular visit to Anh Dao with food and general supplies for the month. When we arrived, the children at Anh Dao helped carry all the provisions into the main common room. These included bags of rice, boxes of ramen, vegan meats, seafood, milk, varieties of nuts, baby formula, vegetarian wontons, fried tofu, shitake mushrooms, pho seasonings, seaweed, cooking oil, seasonings, vegetables, and fruit.

Next, everyone went to the big field behind Anh Dao or a soccer game. They boys put on uniforms and our volunteers acted as the referees. It was so much fun!

Afterwards, we brought lots of fresh fruit to the field, and all the orphans sat on the grass for a refreshing post-game snack. It was a wonderful day!

This very special charity visit was sponsored by Dan, Van, and Devin Haynes. Thank you!!!

ABOUT THE ANH DAO ORPHANAGE

Founded in 2004 by the Buddhist nun Thich Nu An Son, a large group of orphans are cared for at this wonderful home in Ninh Hoa, 62 kilometers north of Nha Trang. Visit the orphanage and you’ll find a well-organized and loving environment. The children are happy, and it’s a joy to sit, talk, and play with the little ones. To help provide nourishment to the children, and as a small means of earning funds, Sister An Son tends a small farm behind the orphanage, in front of the girl’s living quarters. The children eat the vegetables that are grown here, and the surplus can be sold to help pay for monthly expenses.