In the heart of Svay Ampear Village, nestled in Cambodia’s Kandal province, a 75-year-old grandmother tends to her modest home. Life hasn’t been easy for her and her aging husband. With health issues plaguing her spouse and their daughter and son-in-law working miles away in Phnom Penh, the responsibility of caring for their grandchildren and maintaining the household rests heavily on her shoulders.
The family struggles with a shortage of labor and the daily challenges of making ends meet. Their situation seemed unchanging until the East Asia Poverty Reduction Cooperation Pilot Project was introduced in their village. Svay Ampear was chosen as one of the pilot sites for this initiative aimed at alleviating poverty and improving living conditions.
The grandmother’s family was among the first to benefit from the housing renovation project under this program. “I never imagined our home could look like this,” she says with a hopeful smile. The renovations have not only improved their living conditions but have also reignited hope for a better future.
The project has united the community, offering training and resources to help families become more self-sufficient. “It’s not just about the houses; it’s about building a stronger community,” a project coordinator explains.
For this family, the initiative marks the beginning of a new chapter. With improved housing and community support, they are optimistic about what lies ahead. “Now, I dream of a brighter future for my grandchildren,” she shares.
The transformation in Svay Ampear Village reflects a broader movement toward empowering rural communities in Cambodia. As the East Asia Poverty Reduction Cooperation Pilot Project continues, many families are finding renewed hope and opportunities to thrive.
