Empowering People with Intellectual Disabilities

The past few months have been busy at the Kep Farm thanks to all of the generous donations we received! We have been able to equip the farm with new tools and technology such as a wood chipper to quickly remove waste and make wood chips for the growing number of seedling beds. Our residents have been busy with work but we have ensured they have regular excursions outside of the farm to unwind and relax. We have also been able to purchase the materials needed for small construction and renovations. All of this would not have been possible without the support shown through our online GlobalGiving fundraiser.  

In November, we were also able to host a field trip for children from our disability program in another province to come and visit the Kep Farm to allow the children some time to socialise with their peers. These trips were conducted over two weekends and the children were able to play, engage with each other, and have a picnic together at the local beach. These interactions are so important for giving the children an opportunity to just be kids! 

In addition to purchasing new equipment and items, there have also been some other major changes at the farm. We are excited to announce the renaming of The Kep Farm Social Business to officially become “La Farmidable”! This name change represents much more than just a rebranding for this project. Having an official name gives an identity to the residents of the project and legitimacy to the work that they do. Along with a new name, we also have an official logo, which was designed from the artwork of one resident. Together with the name, it captures the essence of La Farmidable: a farm, a residence, and a formidable community. 

Imagine situations where you have met someone for the first time. What do you tell them? What kind of information do you give to spark the conversation and make connections? For most of us, what we do plays a massive role in how we identify ourselves. When we are proud of the work we do, we project that positive energy into our daily lives.   

Many of the residents of La Farmidable have been with Damnok Toek since they were children. We have seen the growth they experienced having been given the opportunity to learn in an environment that provides services to meet their needs, not just as children with disabilities, but their needs simply as children. Everyone wants to be heard and treated with dignity. When these needs are met, people flourish.  

La Farmidable was established not only to address the need for better facilities for PWD in Cambodia but also out of recognition of the contribution PWD bring to society. La Farmidable would not exist without the dedication of the residents and their participation is invaluable. We are already seeing the changes that having new materials and equipment are making for the residents of La Farmidable and are so grateful for your continued support. 

Throughout 2022 we will focus on marketing our products more effectively and continuing to expand our operation. La Farmidable was established to become a self-sustaining community and business for residents where they can live as independently as possible. In 2022 we hope to produce packaging for produce and tea, business cards to distribute around the community, and an official sign for the farm. All of these items will help increase the visibility of the project and the opportunities for the residents. We are very excited to see what 2022 brings so keep following the project to see all of the changes! 

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