From Challenges to Stability

The decision to invest in these specific activities followed thorough consultations and feasibility studies conducted by the Krousar Thmey team. Although the family initially faced challenges and unfavorable conditions with fishing and poultry farming, they persisted. Eventually, Mrs. Khatna’s family established a stable daily income:

• Fishing: They catch between 3 to 6 kg of fish daily from the river behind their house. Half of the catch is sold for 6,000 Riels per kg, while the remainder is kept for daily meals or processed into Prahok (fish paste) for sale.

• Poultry Farming: Their chicken farm yields a significant return, with prices ranging from 7,000 to 15,000 Riels per kg, depending on the size of the birds.

• Handicrafts: Additionally, Mrs. Khatna generates income by weaving water hyacinth hammocks. Sold to villagers and tourists for 15,000 Riels each, she typically completes one hammock every 2 to 3 days, depending on her health.

Impact on Education and Family

The success of this small business has ensured a sustainable future for their two grandchildren, who have been in their care since infancy following their parents’ divorce:

• Poeun Rima (15): Currently in Grade 9.
• Poeun Rady (13): Currently in Grade 7 at Dan Run Lower Secondary School.

Since 2020, both children have also been supported by the Child Welfare Program, receiving a monthly allowance of $15 each. Beyond financial aid, they receive educational counseling, career orientation for vocational training or university, and soft skills training to help them achieve their future professional dreams.

The post Success story of Income Generation Activity of Krousar Thmey first appeared on Krousar Thmey.

Comme vous le découvrirez dans les sections suivantes, nous avons eu le grand honneur d’être reçus par Sa Majesté le Roi Norodom Sihamoni et Sa Majesté la Reine Mère, Norodom Monineath, fin mai. Depuis l’inauguration de la première école pour enfants aveugles par Sa Majesté la Reine Mère le 30 novembre 1994, Krousar Thmey a toujours eu le soutien de Leurs Majestés tant moral que financier, et cette audience royale fut une grande joie pour nous.

Ce fut l’occasion de se remémorer des souvenirs, ainsi que d’évoquer l’évolution de nos actions et celle du Cambodge. Sa Majesté la Reine Mère a exprimé son soutien en nous offrant une contribution exceptionnelle de 20 000 dollars pour la mise hors d’eau du centre de protection de Takhmao. Nous tenons à souligner une fois de plus notre profonde gratitude.

Comme vous l’avez probablement vu dans les médias, les relations entre le Cambodge et la Thaïlande se sont détériorées récemment au point de craindre des combats. Espérons que les esprits des deux côtés, particulièrement belliqueux de la part de quelques hauts gradés de l’armée thaïlandaise, permettent à nouveau de retrouver la Paix pour la poursuite du développement du Cambodge.

Merci de votre fidèle soutien.

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The evening opened with a powerful moment: children from our Takhmao Protection Center graced the stage with a traditional blessing flower dance. Their poised and graceful performance not only captivated the audience but also symbolized the growing confidence and integration of our children into the broader community. Seeing them shine was a moment of immense pride for all of us at Krousar Thmey.

Over 300 students, families and educators filled the venue with energy and enthusiasm. Each musical act received warm applause with one of the most memorable performances coming from CIA’s primary class students, whose vibrant performances lit up the stage and brought smiles to every face.

Adding depth to the evening, our long-standing partners from the National Institute for Special Education (NISE) hosted an engaging exhibition on deafness and blindness. Attendees of all ages explored Braille and sign language, gaining valuable insights into inclusive communication and the importance of accessibility in education.

The highlight of the fundraising efforts was a dynamic concert organized by the CIA music department, which raised $2700 in cash donations that will directly support our mission to provide quality care, education and empowerment to vulnerable and marginalized children in Cambodia.

We extend our deepest thanks to CIA First International School, its dedicated staff and its talented students for their generosity and commitment to social change. We are also deeply grateful to our event sponsors—Prudential, Pachem Dental Clinic and CIMB Bank—for believing in the potential of every child.

Together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future for Cambodia’s children—one note, one song, one step and one smile at a time.

The post An Evening of Hope: CIA First International School Raises Funds and Awareness for Krousar Thmey first appeared on Krousar Thmey.

A Powerful Initiative

In a community where access to basic healthcare is a distant dream and where survival often means collecting garbage, the village of Tuol Pongro in Poipet province, on the border with Thailand, is an example of resilience in the face of adversity. Aware of the urgent need for intervention, Krousar Thmey, with the loyal support of the Amicale des Étudiants en Pharmacie et des Pharmaciens Khmers (AEPK), launched an unprecedented health and hygiene awareness campaign, offering hope and care to a long-neglected region. The initiative was made possible through collaboration with the Banteay Meanchey provincial health department and local authorities. The campaign aimed to provide immediate medical aid and educational resources to over 500 beneficiaries, including monks, children, schoolchildren, teachers, the elderly, and families in difficulty in the region.

The program prioritized early detection of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, which are often neglected in poor communities. Participants received medical consultations, medication and advice on how to manage these pathologies. To ensure safety, two ambulances were stationed on site to deal with requests for emergency assistance in serious cases. The event also included interactive health education workshops focusing on practical topics such as dental care, sleep and food hygiene. Although concise, these sessions captivated participants, who actively participated by asking questions and sharing personal stories. Their enthusiasm demonstrated their deep desire to improve their health and well-being.

 

 

 

 

 

Krousar Thmey also provided essential goods such as basic food items (rice, oil, canned goods, etc.) and school supplies. Hygiene kits and over 1,000 educational posters were distributed to help families adopt healthier practices. Many participants showed a keen interest in these materials, requesting additional copies to share with their neighbors and relatives.

Going a step further, this event not only addressed immediate health concerns but also gave the entire community the knowledge and tools to improve their well-being over the long term. It also allowed some to confide: “This is the first time we’ve had something like this. It’s not just about receiving, but knowing that someone cares about us,” said one participant, whose gratitude reflected both the help he had received and the feeling of being seen, listened to and, ultimately, existing in the eyes of others, despite his difficulties.

The success of this initiative has demonstrated its profound impact on disadvantaged populations. Your support and that of our partners is helping to transform lives, bringing health, hope, and dignity to communities like Tuol Pongro.

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“My first day of grocery selling was incredibly difficult. I felt ashamed as buyers laughed at me for using a broken baby bucket to carry my items. I didn’t know what a fair price for my goods should be, but within a week, I managed to figure it out. Soon, I was making good deals and saved up enough money—$15—to buy a proper bucket, and people stopped laughing. I used to think the world was small and closed to me, but I realized it was my own fear holding me back. Thanks to the $300 financial support from Krousar Thmey’s Income Generation Activity, I was able to reunite with my family and face any challenges that came my way. I failed at several small businesses, but I never gave up. I watched others, learned, and kept trying until I built a successful business of my own,” said Chenda, smiling as she shared her story.

Chenda, a 33-year-old married mother of two, grew up with her aunt and four siblings in Wat Svay village, Sala Kamoeuk commune. Originally from Siem Reap, her parents separated when she was pregnant with her third child. She used to work as a kitchen helper at the Stung Siem Reap hotel, where she met her husband, an electrician. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, she moved to Puok district to live with her mother-in-law, about 20 kilometers from the city, after losing her job during the pandemic’s second year. Her husband still works in Siem Reap and sends money home, but his income barely covers their needs, supporting his mother, Chenda, and their two children.

In 2023, Chenda met a social worker from Krousar Thmey during an outreach activity. They discussed the possible support she could receive, and Chenda shared her dream of opening a dessert stall. She spent a week learning to make desserts from her neighbors for free and then moved to Siem Reap with her children to begin selling. Despite guidance and regular visits from Krousar Thmey staff, her dessert business did not succeed as expected, earning only $2.5 to $3.5 daily. Many locals preferred to eat in busier areas, and the elderly didn’t often buy desserts. Undeterred, Chenda pivoted to selling shaved ice syrup, meatballs, and papaya salad, which did better initially but only lasted two months, as sales depended heavily on the nearby school’s schedule. She faced yet another setback.

Chenda’s resilience kept her going. Inspired by others selling vegetables and meat from motorbikes, she decided to try the same. After consulting with Krousar Thmey, she borrowed an additional 300,000 riels ($75) to add to her remaining 200,000 riels ($50) from Krousar Thmey’s original support and started her business again. This time, she succeeded.

“Every day, I wake up at 4 a.m. to buy items at the market and prepare everything by 6:30 a.m. I drive from one location to another, visiting my regular customers, and spend about five and a half hours before returning home. I sell around 70% of my items and reserve the rest for evening sales at my house. I earn between 150,000 and 170,000 riels ($37.5 – $42.5) daily, with a net income of 30,000 to 35,000 riels ($7.5 – $8.75). This income allows me to save for healthcare and future needs. Before, I couldn’t afford snacks for my kids or buy more than 100 grams of pork. Now, I can buy 500 grams and better provide for my family. I’ve been selling vegetables and meat on the move for nearly a year and a half since 2023, and I’m proud of the income I generate. ‘Everyone can make their own path, and there’s no success without effort,’” said Chenda.

In the future, Chenda hopes to see her two children become teachers or nurses, like her sisters, Vichekar and Tola, who are studying nursing with Krousar Thmey’s Academic and Career Counseling support at Kampong Cham Regional Training Centre for Health.

The post A Story of a Successful Mobile Vendor, CHENDA first appeared on Krousar Thmey.

Krousar Thmey is dedicated to providing education, cultural access, and social support to disadvantaged children in Cambodia, particularly those who are deaf, blind, or otherwise vulnerable. Your participation in this charity run can help Krousar Thmey continue to transform lives and offer brighter futures to these children. Every step you take will bring hope and opportunity to those who need it most.

Join Us After the Siem Reap International Half Marathon!

Are you already planning to run in the Siem Reap International Half Marathon on December 1, 2024? Why not extend your support for a wonderful cause? After you have completed the half marathon, you can join our charity event on December 15th and contribute to a life-changing mission for Cambodian children.

The Susu Running Team, who are leading this charity initiative, have been an incredible force in organizing and promoting this event. Their commitment to fitness and their passion for making a positive impact on Cambodian society is truly inspiring. We would like to thank all athletes who have already reserved the date for this charitable event, especially the Susu Running Team, for their dedication to this cause and their leadership in supporting the Krousar Thmey Foundation.

Why Join the Charity Run?

Support Children in Need

All proceeds will directly benefit Krousar Thmey, helping children access essential services and education.

Be Part of a Community

Whether you are a seasoned runner or a beginner, this is a fantastic opportunity to unite with fellow athletes and fitness enthusiasts for a meaningful cause.

Extend Your Marathon Journey

If you are participating in the Siem Reap International Half Marathon, our charity run is a great way to continue your running journey this December while making a real difference in the lives of Cambodian children.

Inspire Others

By joining, you will help raise awareness about Krousar Thmey’s mission and encourage others to support this important cause.

Learn and Promote Inclusivity

During the event, you’ll have the unique opportunity to engage in sign language learning sessions led by members of the deaf community, as well as explore how Braille is written and used by individuals who are blind. This experience will give you a glimpse into the world of special education and how it fosters inclusivity, creating a sense of unity and understanding among us all.

Event Details

• Race Day: December 15, 2024
• Venue: Aeon Mall 3, Phnom Penh
• Distance: 10 km & 5 km
• Registration Link: https://cps4.me/susu10k
• Event Telegram: https://t.me/susu10k2024

 Who Can Join?

Everyone! Whether you are an avid runner, a casual jogger, or just want to walk for a great cause, you’re welcome to participate.

How to Participate

To participate in this charity run, simply visit the registration page https://kh.checkpointspot.asia/event/susu10k. If you are unable to join in person, you can participate in virtual run, anytime and anywhere. Every bit of support count and will help us make a difference.

We cannot wait to see you there! Together, let’s run for a brighter future for Cambodia’s children. Thank you again to all the athletes, runners, and especially to the Susu Running Team for their incredible leadership and passion. Let’s make this a memorable event that brings hope and joy to the lives of many!

Let’s make every step count!

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Thirty years ago, Krousar Thmey launched Cambodia’s first special education program for deaf and blind children. Since then, much progress has been made, and thousands of people with visual or hearing disabilities have been able to integrate into society, thanks in particular to the schools founded by the NGO. Their transfer to the Cambodian government in 2019 was both a source of pride and a crucial step in ensuring that all this work would continue over the long term. To ensure that the process runs smoothly, annual evaluation missions are carried out from 2021 to 2024; the last one took place last June and marks the start of a new chapter.

The results of this audit highlight the positive management of the specialized schools by the Cambodian Ministry of Education and provide final recommendations to strengthen their future operations. The focus of this meeting is on the training of special education teachers and sign language interpreters, but also on improving courses by integrating student feedback, structuring lessons, and organizing regular technical meetings with staff.

Krousar Thmey and INES at the last audit in June 2024

In addition, the resources allocated by the Cambodian government remain a crucial factor in meeting the need for adapted textbooks, teaching materials accessible to the most disadvantaged pupils, and the development of support and learning platforms and software.

A final report, summarizing all the recommendations made over the past four years, was submitted to the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport in August 2024. From then on, the Ministry will be in charge of resolving each point by incorporating them into its next Strategic Educational Plan. In addition to ensuring the sustainability of the education system for children with disabilities, this also marks a great success for Krousar Thmey, which is thus realizing its primary philosophy: “Projects by Cambodians for Cambodians”.

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