Our Vision
Miriam's Hope Foundation envisions a future where all women leaving bar work are provided with the resources and support necessary for a new beginning and long-term independence. While not every woman can or wants to be a caregiver, each woman will be assessed for career choices and referred customized opportunities with partner organizations. Our educational approach empowers them through specialized training in non-medical caregiving skills, English language proficiency, Bible study, and essential life skills. Certified graduates further their education or pursue careers within our non-medical elder care business, allowing them to attain stable and purposeful lives while positively impacting both their families and the wider community.
Key Verse
Romans 15:13 NIV
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit"
Watch Our Story
Leadership
Marjorie Garrean
Advisor
My name is Marj Garrean and I provide free consulting services to ministries that work on trafficking and women’s issues in Southeast Asia. Eight years ago, God said to me to open a training guest house named Tamar Guest House that trains under forty-year-old sex workers from the bars to be maids and receptionists. I advised them through their purchase, construction, and setup of the guest house. After their successful completion, I was invited to consult with the Palm Center, the only Christian Counseling Center in the area, during their startup activities. I reviewed processes, procedures, finance, technology, and other essential functions, enabling staff to concentrate on supporting those seeking help. Throughout the time I have been in Asia, I have observed that once a woman turned 40 years old, there are no jobs for her and no training. It was confirmed when I met 3 women during outreach in the bars. One had worked in a restaurant all her life, but then they fired her because she was too old. She said she looked everywhere for another restaurant job, but no one would hire her because of her age. The only place that would hire her was in a bar selling drinks and herself. As I prayed about these situations and felt a deepening ache in my heart, God gave me a vision of a ministry for women over 40, which led to the creation of Miriam’s Hope (MH).
Ben
Board of Directors - Chairperson
My name is Ben. Three years ago, I moved to Pattaya with a dream not so different from many others—I thought perhaps I would meet a rich, loving, and perfect “prince” there. Before coming to Pattaya, I had been a lost Christian, distant from God for more than five years. But when I arrived, God gave me a new opportunity for a new life. I was given the chance to work with a Christian organization called Tamar Center. It was there that I experienced healing from my emotional wounds, grew in my relationship with God, and began using my life experiences to encourage women working in bars in Pattaya. It was also there that I met Marj, my supervisor in the reception department. We often went on outreach together. One day, she shared her vision with me about Miriam’s Hope and the deep sense of hopelessness among women as they grow older—especially those over 40. Many of them have worked in bars since they were young, and as they age, they often lack the skills needed to pursue other careers and support themselves. As a result, they become less desired in the bar industry. This vision deeply resonated with me, as I carried the same burden in my heart for these women. That is why I decided to join Miriam’s Hope and begin this ministry wholeheartedly, starting on January 5, 2026.
Barbara Maycock
Training Advisor
Hello, I’m Barbara Maycock. My background is teaching. I taught Geography in Secondary School in Wales for many years and took early retirement 15 years ago so that I could serve God and go wherever He led me. It's been quite a journey. I have five grown-up children and seven grandchildren who are scattered around the world. Over these years I have taught English as a Second Language in many situations and to people of all ages, from kindergarten to adults. I have lived in Pattaya for several years serving the Lord in different ministries. Most recently at Tamar Center which gave me the opportunity to teach English to women from the bars and get to know their stories. Marj asked if I’d like to join Miriam’s Hope Foundation and this is the next step for me on my journey with the Lord. God opens doors for us to serve Him and use our skills and talents for His purposes. I also have a heart for the more mature women who work in the bars. They seem to have few options as far as employment is concerned in the city and so have to stay working in the bars. To give them an opportunity of finding an alternative occupation as Care Givers is the reason for setting up Miriam’s Hope. It is both exciting and challenging to be part of this new ministry in Pattaya. Isaiah 40 v29-31 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.