Songkhla Governor Mobilizes Aid for Homeless Elderly Woman
Songkhla's governor has ordered assistance for a 68-year-old homeless woman whose welfare benefits were cut despite owning two decades-old motorcycles, after flooding destroyed her Hat Yai home.
Songkhla Governor Ratthasart Chidchoo has ordered relevant agencies to assist a 68-year-old homeless woman living in a makeshift shelter after her welfare card was revoked. She lost her welfare benefits because she owns two motorcycles, though inspection revealed both vehicles are over 15 years old. With an ailing bedridden husband and no children to care for them, she survives by collecting garbage and selling scrap materials, supplemented by a 600-baht monthly elderly assistance stipend. Flooding at the end of 2024 left her without a home, forcing her to live in a shelter with her husband. The governor has tasked Hat Yai District Officer Ekachai Kaewratana to coordinate agencies in reviewing her welfare card eligibility, improving her living conditions, and providing health checks. Hat Yai Municipal Council member Suphavitch Monichote expressed satisfaction with the government's swift response, noting that permanent housing should be arranged for her. He acknowledged that driving at her age poses safety risks and thanked all agencies involved in assisting her, demonstrating that the state does not abandon its people.