Devoted To Cambodia Empowers Children in Cambodia
SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA – Inspired by a desire to help children living near a local dump, a new initiative called Devoted to Cambodia is providing education and hope for the future. The project, which launched in September 2023, now serves 120 children, offering English classes and sports programs to foster critical life skills.
The project's founder, Abi, a former international school teacher, said she was moved to action after seeing a video of children working at the dump. She felt "helpless" until she connected with a local charity, Work of Your Hand, which was already helping families transition from the dump to stable jobs.
“They wanted to expand their English education program for the local children, so they offered to partner with us and allowed us to use their community centre as a base,” Abi said.
With initial funding from ChristCentral in the UK, Devoted to Cambodia began teaching English to small groups of students. The goal is to provide them with language skills that will lead to better job opportunities. The program also includes a sports curriculum to teach teamwork, communication, and leadership.
According to Abi, the students' progress has been remarkable. “Our students now speak English confidently and their progress is inspiring,” she said. This sentiment was echoed by Hannah, a volunteer from Germany, who expressed her joy at “seeing the kids so happy” and “motivated” to learn.
Thanks to the support of former team members and 46 monthly donors, the project has grown to include four local staff members and seven committed volunteers.
Looking ahead, Devoted to Cambodia aims to improve its facilities, hire more staff, and provide support to students as they seek stable jobs. The organization is currently seeking additional funding to help achieve these goals and “create a brighter future for these children.”
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Keep in touch with Sam & Abi
Sam and Abi are based at Grace Church Siem Reap, Cambodia. They are part of the leadership team of the church, Sam oversees the church team and Abi heads up their social action project 'Devoted to Cambodia'.
Devoted To Cambodia teaches English to around 120 children who live and work on the local dump. This gives these children a chance to get a better job when they are older. This also gives Abi & the team an opportunity to share the gospel.
Sam & Abi would love to stay connected with you! To find out more about thow you can support them you can connect via: