Strengthening Families, Safeguarding Futures

This quarter was significantly impacted by the escalation of the border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand, which led to displacement and widespread school closures in border provinces. In response, Free To Shine activated its Crisis Management Team to safeguard girls, families and staff. Although in-person visits were briefly suspended for two weeks in higher-risk areas, our social workers maintained regular phone contact to ensure girls remained safe and connected to support.

We supported 152 girls and their families this quarter through ongoing social work and safety visits, four new intakes and 10 exits to safety. Despite instability and economic pressure, 131 girls remain in school. We provided bikes, uniforms, school supplies and financial support for additional curriculum classes to reduce barriers to attendance and prevent drop-out.

We also strengthened families’ access to Cambodia’s IDPoor system so they could access government education assistance. Through close collaboration with local authorities, we supported vulnerable households to secure and properly use this assistance, helping ensure children could continue their education safely.