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Our Mission

Dton Naam Ministries offers boys and transgender sex workers the opportunity to leave prostitution and helps them to rebuild their lives holistically by providing education, healthcare, counseling, and vocational skills training.

Why We're Here

The most recent Thai government sanctioned study in 2004 estimated that approximately 20,000 Thai men prostitute themselves daily.  It is estimated that there are at least 10,000 transgender “ladyboys” working in Bangkok’s sex industry and we have seen boys as young as eight years old working the streets.  AIDS/HIV is a significant concern.  These men and boys desperately need someone to care for them.

Our Approach

Through showing compassion and establishing healthy relationships, we offer counseling, education, vocational training, jobs, discipleship, safety, and more to these young men and women who generally have been offered few opportunities to overcome their desperate situations.   Because there are already four organizations in Bangkok serving women, Dton Naam is focused primarily on serving men and boys who are at-risk, or already working in the prostitution industry.

Outreach

Build trust and friendship with male and transgender individuals working in the red-light district and continue prevention outreach with young boys in the slum areas that are already being labelled by family and/or peers to become ladyboys.

Programs

Invite ladyboys to join our program through an application/interview process.  Provide access to counselors and social workers, education,

Encounter Jesus

First and foremost, we seek to create an environment where our students can encounter Jesus.  Educate them learn healthy boundaries with others and receive healing from their abuse, exploitation, and devaluing.  Walk alongside them, giving space for the Holy Spirit to bring about healing to their gender and sexuality.

Jobs

Help our students find legitimate jobs where each can be successful and enjoy their work.  Help them finish their education, identify meaningful long-term employment, and assist them in reaching their goals.

The Story of "Dton Naam"

In the Thai language, Dton Naam describes the source of a stream, where one would find the freshest, purest water.  Think of the water at the top of a mountain, spilling over to provide refreshment to the valley below.  There is no direct translation in English, but “source of water” is what comes closest.  The phrase is a beautiful analogy of our hope to see Christ pour His living, pure, and eternal life into the adults, teens, and children involved in prostitution in Thailand.  We believe there is healing and freedom available to all trapped in sexual bondage.  We are actively involved in ending human trafficking, prostitution and sexual exploitation of all persons.