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Despite the ongoing uncertainty in Myanmar, the Mary K. Yap Foundation remains committed in our mission to uplift and care for the orphaned children we have served for over two decades. These children, who face some of life’s most difficult circumstances, continue to be at the heart of everything we do. We believe that every child deserves hope, stability, and a future filled with opportunity.

As Dr. John Palmer, Board Chair of the Foundation, shared in a recent Zoom interview:
“They (the children) should not fear what will happen in the future, instead, we must take each day and pay attention to areas where they can develop new talents and skills to support their future.”– Dr John Palmer
Board Chair of the Mary K. Yap Foundation

Daily Learning and Emotional Growth
In line with this vision, our Foundation encourages all children in our care to continue their journey of daily self-learning. Developing habits such as reading, writing, and critical thinking helps build a foundation of confidence and independence. Our local orphanage teams work diligently to provide educational materials, including books, journals, and storytelling sessions, to support each child’s development. Daw Meme Lwin, one of our dedicated Orphanage Ambassadors, has played a key role in nurturing this spirit of growth. Through her regular reading sessions and motivational talks, she helps children understand that even the smallest effort can pave the way for a “Better Tomorrow.” These acts of engagement do more than educate—they inspire hope.
Building Resilience Through Reading and Connection
Through partnerships with domestic and international donors, we have launched a coordinated effort to distribute books and educational materials to every orphanage center under our care. These resources are not just for learning—they are tools for healing. They allow children to explore stories of strength, imagination, and survival, and to find pieces of themselves in each tale.
Children who grow up in traumatic or unstable environments often struggle with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and emotional withdrawal. These issues cannot be ignored—and we are committed to addressing them head-on.
Empowering Mental and Emotional Well-being
At the Mary K. Yap Foundation, we know that education alone is not enough. That’s why we place a strong emphasis on emotional well-being and mental support. Our teams maintain regular communication between children, ambassadors, and caregivers to create a circle of support and listening.
Through shared stories, meaningful dialogue, and personalized care, we work to remind each child that they are not alone. That their voices matter. And that despite the uncertainty outside, within our care, they are safe, valued, and seen.
As we continue to navigate the challenges facing Myanmar, our Foundation remains devoted to protecting the light within every orphaned child—and to ensuring that their future is one of resilience, growth, and hope.


