Beyond regular Buddhist practices, the pagoda engages in extensive social and charitable activities to support those in need.

After graduating from a Buddhist academy in HCMC in the early 2000s, Venerable Thich Le Tam settled in the then-remote Tan Minh area of Binh Thuan (now part of Lam Dong) with the initial intent of establishing a place for worship and study.

Over time, during his preaching visits across various regions, he encountered orphaned or abandoned children with nowhere to return. Moved by compassion, he began taking them in, offering them a family.

As word spread, more children were sent to the pagoda, prompting local authorities to guide him in establishing the Thien Tam Pagoda Orphanage and Disability Center. In 2005, the center was officially recognized by the Binh Thuan (former) People’s Committee and the Department of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs. To date, it has taken care of 103 children.

A beautiful life 

At Thien Tam, children receive education, participate in extracurricular activities, and develop life skills. Nutritious meals and joyful moments together provide them with a fuller childhood despite their circumstances.

The Venerable Tam, also the center’s director, dedicates significant time to teaching the children ethics and life principles, fostering their emotional and spiritual growth.

The pagoda’s success largely stems from community support. Donors and social organizations contribute funds, essentials, and time to aid the children.

Regular extracurricular programs, cultural exchanges, and charitable activities bring joy and valuable experiences to the children.

Thien Tam Pagoda is not just a place for physical care but also a nurturing ground for dreams. With the devoted care of the Venerable Tam and the community, many children have gained opportunities for quality education, stepping into society with confidence and resilience.

The pagoda emphasizes that beyond love, knowledge and life skills are crucial for the children to stand firm in their future. This is both the aspiration and concern of Venerable Thich Le Tam and the center as a whole. 

Treating the children as their own, they hope the children will receive a full education and a bright future, contributing to society. The goal is for them to become self-reliant, even without external support.

Last year, 94 children enrolled in various school levels, with clothing, books, and tuition fees posing a significant burden for the pagoda. This year, nearly 100 children are expected to attend school.

The Venerable Tam takes on the roles of teacher, father, and mother, personally caring for them. “Whenever I’m away for a couple of days, I miss the children and can’t sleep,” he said.

Thanh Minh