Hand to Hand Foundation was founded in 2009 by Margaret “Margie” Grainger, an Australian educator who had been teaching at an international school in Pattaya. What she saw outside the classroom stayed with her — abandoned infants, families who couldn't afford an education, and adults without the literacy or documentation to find steady work.
“The cycle of poverty is vicious and can only be broken by education and skills training within a family setting, wherever possible.”
In 2010, Hand to Hand became an officially registered Thai foundation (Registration No. Chor Bor 11), giving that early conviction a permanent home.
Seventeen years on, the same joy that started in one classroom now reaches thousands of children across Pattaya.
Hand to Hand is a Christian organisation based in Pattaya. We work to protect those who are marginalised — regardless of race, age or religion — providing care, food, shelter, legal documentation, and learning opportunities that help families stand on their own.
We show up in hospitals, prisons, slum communities and homes — not just with words, but with food, clothing and steady presence.
From pre-school to scholarships, we believe learning is the most reliable path out of generational poverty.
Our housing, family care and micro-enterprise programs are built to keep families together and self-sufficient.
Hand to Hand opens its doors with just Margie.
Pai and Mon join Margie, growing the team from one to three.
The Pre-School opens at Duck Square.
Hand to Hand becomes a registered Thai foundation (Reg. No. Chor Bor 11), formalising its work across the city.
Hand to Hand purchases the Suksabai Villa.
Renovations to the villa are generously completed free of charge by Riviera.
Hand to Hand Suksabai Villa 3 opens its doors.
Land at Nong Palai is purchased, laying the groundwork for a new housing project.
Housing is completed at Nong Palai, giving families a safe, permanent place to call home.
Hand to Hand continues to run community programs, an annual community walk around Lake Mabprachan, and government partnerships — rooted in Pattaya, supported from around the world.
A small, dedicated Pattaya-based team runs Hand to Hand's day-to-day programs, ministries and community relationships.
