Education for 300 Urban Poor Children

“Now I know I have more courage than ever before. I've learned a lot from the teachers in the children's club (she referred to the SCO staff). The teachers always encourage me to speak up, lead, and express my ideas, opinions, and feedback. In the club, I can lead my group, talk in front of many people, and teach lessons. In terms of hygiene, I am more aware than ever before. I've realized how important it is to keep my house clean and to take care of my health. I am not getting sick as frequently. I am not getting sick as frequently, which allows me to be more productive and focused on my studies and my goals to be a soldier.” Soufin said.

Soufin is a thirteen-year-old student presently enrolled in the eighth grade. She has one sister and two brothers. She lives with her grandparents at Tropeang Agnchagn community (TA). Her grandmother, Ms. Chantha, is 62 years old, and she sells Khmer cake to support the family, while her father, Mr. Khon, earns a living by repairing bicycles. Since she was three months old, Soufin has lived with her grandparents.

“I have been raising Soufin since she was 3 months old until now. Her parents are separated, and then her mother has a new husband. Even though they live together, they have a poor life, irregular work, and no money to raise children. I have been raising and providing for my grandchildren long ago,” her grandmother said. It is noteworthy that Soufin’s grandparents also do not have a prosperous life; their income comes only to supply food and daily life. Only when she got to know Sunshine Cambodia Organization (SCO) she asked the SCO’s staff to help Soufin get into school, especially for studying English, because Soufin had never taken English classes before.

Soufin has improved in terms of courage; she dares to talk to her grandmother when she has problems, whether it is studying or other problems. Soufin, before joining the children and family development program of SCO, was scared and did not have the courage to talk about her problems, even with her grandmother. “Soufin's current situation has changed significantly; she has more courage to speak up, she uses appropriate words both at school and at home, unlike before, and she can talk to me when she has a problem. Her hygiene has also improved; her clothes are clean, and there is no smell anymore. Her fingernails and toenails were cut regularly, especially, she could keep her mouth and teeth clean. She is much happier and healthier overall,” her grandmother expressed.

“Nowadays, Soufin dares to lead activities in children's clubs, talk with friends, and participate in youth-led project. She has shown increased courage; she shared with me about her issues. I am happy to see that she has the courage and confidence to participate in group discussion and youth-led projects. These activities have helped her overcome her fear and shyness. Now she is more confident and willing to take on new challenges. Additionally, Soufin representing SCO's children at a partner organization meeting is something I am very proud of because she speaks up and does it with courage. I am proud of Soufin's accomplishments and commit to continue supporting her as she grows and develops. I believe that by investing in children like Soufin, we can create a better future for all,” said Ms. Chenda, CFDP’s Coordinator.