Somnang was only three years old when his mother passed away due to complications from diabetes. Meanwhile, his father was suffering from substance use, which eventually led to severe mental health issues that made him leave the family out of the blue. No one knows if he is still alive today.
Somnang was left behind to stay with his great-aunt, who dedicated her life to caring for him. However, with her only form of income being a few dollars each week from weaving and selling farmer’s hats, the small family has had to face food insecurity as well as extreme poverty for years. Somnang started attending Primary School two years ago, but often lacks the means to buy school supplies – or even shoes.
Thomlang – Cambodian Youth Support was introduced to Somnang last year and immediately decided to start supporting the little boy on a monthly basis. We provided the 3rd grade student with a school uniform, school supplies, and a bicycle to ride to school, and have been continuing our support through the distribution of food donations and hygiene products, like tooth brushes, soap, and shampoo, every single month. We are in close contact with the family and have also covered medical bills when needed.
This way, we hope to ensure that the 10-year-old boy can fully focus on his educational progress in Primary School, which is a crucial foundation for a brighter future.