Here in Cambodia, “orphanages” are often viewed in a well-deserved, unfavorable manner. In way too many cases, so-called “orphanages” are simply scams run for the benefit of the sponsor, not the kids. Here’s a video that makes that point vividly clear. Don’t Create More Orphans
Fortunately, in contrast, there is our NGO partner in Siem Reap – Children’s Improvement Organization (CIO). Run by Sitha Toeung and his wife, Sreymom, they provide a family living environment for 36 kids who are truly orphaned, or simply abandoned with absolutely no place to go.
Yes, in the true sense of the word CIO is an orphanage, but we don’t use that word. In our eyes they are simply a “family home”. To bring that notion to life for you, I’ll share the story of “The Twins” – in Sitha’s own words.
The mother of twins, Pisey and Piseth, lived in Tarous Village, Siem Reap, Cambodia. On May 17, 2012, she gave birth to them. Tragically, she died of starvation just six weeks later. Their father abandoned the twins to work as a laborer in Thailand. He never returned.
In response to this dire situation, the village chief and local authorities reached out to us (CIO) for assistance. Since 2012, we have cared for Pisey and Piseth, who are now turning 13 and are in the seventh grade. Today they are thriving. Take a LOOK.
Here, in Sitha’s own words, is how he and Sreymom describe their work raising these kids.
At CIO, we strive to create a nurturing environment that feels less like an orphanage and more like a big family. We typically care for around 36 children, with the number fluctuating as some leave for university, jobs, or marriage, while new children arrive. Our mission is to equip these children with the tools they need to become successful, independent adults. This includes providing unconditional love, healthcare, nutritious meals, academic support, English and computer classes, funding for university, and even opportunities for vacations.
For two years now, I’ve worked hand-in-hand with Sitha, Sreymom and CIO to clarify their long-term goals and future needs. I’ve gone over their books. I’ve looked at their cost structure. Frugal is the word that comes to mind immediately. Without question, they are stretching their resources to the absolute limit. However, with their current annual deficit approaching $20,000, they are truly “running on fumes.”
I hope you get the message here.
What you see above is an APPEAL to YOU,
and the generous donors that make our work possible.
Actually, it’s 36 special voices, plus Sitha and Sreymom,
all hoping some of you will pitch in
and help them raise their kids.
Thank You
We’re really proud to partner with Sith and the wonderful team at Childrens Improvement Organization — all working together to provide a life for these orphaned and abandoned kids.
If you’re interested knowing about the work that our other Cambodian NGO partners are doing in service to those most in need, you can click here.
At the SE Asia Foundation we do not simply “help” people
We Help People Help Themselves
That is our focus
That is our commitment
That is where our actions show up
Please help us keep doing that with a tax-deductible
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