The Green Gecko Project team and its volunteers have committed themselves since 2006 to helping the child beggars in Siem Reap, capital of the namesake province located in northwestern Cambodia. They provide support to the children and adolescents along the rough road away from poverty, domestic and/or sexual abuse and onward to a self-determined and independent life free of fear.
The roughly 80 girls and boys ranging from ages 4 to 16 have found more than a secure home at the Green Gecko Project facilities, however. The severely traumatized children experience ─ often for the first time in their lives – what it means to be loved and respected. They are able to attend school, participate in sports and artistic activities such as painting and singing, as well as learn to assume responsibility through helping to manage the daily housework and gardening. Furthermore, these kids can offer their own ideas and become incorporated into the decision-making process for planning activities or procedures. This, in turn, enables the children to learn to stand up for their opinions and desires as well as express their thoughts and feelings. They actually start to trust themselves and others again, feeling appreciated and accepted too.
The teenagers are also allowed to remain in the Green Gecko Project following the end of the school program, until such time as they can earn their own income and lead an independent life. In order to constantly improve the situation for the children, the Green Gecko team also provides support for their families too: e.g. including food packets, medical assistance, help in dealing with addictions and searching for employment. Conducting awareness campaigns as well as fostering healthcare and educational initiatives in the region constitute another significant focal point of the project.
Learn more about Green Gecko.