December 23, 2009 at 1:04 am
SCAO Is Lighting the Way to a Better Future Filled with Hope
Soaring Spirits
Success stories are rare for an orphaned child in Asia. But with the help of volunteers, fundraisers and generous contributions, these success stories are becoming more common. A prime example is the story of Hom, an orphan that was taken under the care and guidance of SCAO several years ago. Once a deserted child living in the slums of Cambodia, Hom is now attending college and studying to become a veterinarian. This is just one example of the impact this organization has been making on these children’s lives. Every child has the potential to do marvelous things in the world; they just need the reassurance and support that someone believes in them and will give them the opportunity and tools to succeed.
Saving Grace
There is more great news buzzing around the orphanage that is putting hope and faith back into the hearts of many. Cambodia was stricken by a monsoon that caused major flooding and water damage throughout the country. The center was flooded and unlivable for many weeks. Recently we learned that the SCAO childcare center is now officially water-free! In addition, the center recently received a laundry machine, refrigerator and additional books which will help tremendously in everyday activities. It can seem alien that some people are living without the things we use in our daily lives, but even the smallest things are bringing a positive change, offer a brighter future for these kids and an immediate better quality of life.
The Longest Yard
Little by little, these additions are improving the conditions at the center, but there’s still a lot of work to be done. The center would take in more homeless children, but this requires larger sleeping quarters and more facilities. Unfortunately SCAO doesn’t have the funds to support this type of project. However, SCAO does have plans to build an additional child care and education center by April 2011. But with this comes numerous other hurdles including finding a suitable location, added expenses, the need for more volunteers, and of course, more fundraising activities.
In the U.S., the economy is still recovering, but it’s unimaginable in Cambodia. Recently 30, 000 workers lost their jobs which is going to put even more children on the streets. SCAO has become a tremendous haven, resource, family and home to countless children, and will continue to do so in the coming years. As long as SCAO is serving its community, the world becomes a little brighter, happier and safer place.
2. Education and Projects: Li May goes to school and is very enthusiastic about it. She wears school uniform of size xxs. Hom got a sponsorship by a German woman for the first semester of his studies at the Phnom Penh Agriculture University. His enrollment will take place soon.
el last year. Rains will continue until mid November. This week we will have to stop the English and sewing project as even the paved way from the village to the center is heavily flooded and most children can’t access the school. The public school is also 80 cm flooded and will remain closed for a longer period. The water already stinks and is full of dead fish. Mr. Samith built a wall to protect the inner center from the water but there is not much hope that this measure will prevent the flooding of the kitchen, and other areas of the Center. The only access to the center since last Thursday is by boat or by walking along the wall. Although Mr. Samith remains optimistic, hoping that the rains will stop. Despite of the fun the children were having in the first days of this exciting situation, the worst part is the serious health problems the children have and will continue to result.
