On Wednesday morning, Dara and his family picked me up, and we headed out to Bati, where we picked up six of our former Watopotian children at their homes. They are the first to be chosen to receive educational support for the coming year. WE took them into the Somrong Yaong Market first to buy their school uniforms.

After the shopping spree, we had our lunch at one of our favorite restaurants. We ate family style with soup and barbecued meats and vegetables prepared at the table.

The children had not seen each other for several months, so the play area provided a good opportunity to renew friendships while the food was being prepared.

When finished with our meal, we drove over to the Wat Ou Poat Pagoda, which at one time was our home.

We were soon joined by 41 other children and their families, all of whom were selected by the village chiefs of five of the surrounding villages to receive backpacks and school supplies.

We were surprised to have a visit from the Chombok Commune leader, Mr. Chan Yem, who had heard from his staff that we would be there.

After thanking Dara and me for our willingness to help his community, he talked with all of the families and then stayed to help pass out the backpacks.

By the time we got the children back home, it was already dark as we returned to Phnom Penh. In the next few days, we will start our evaluations on which children we will provide financial assistance to for the coming year.

The SAHAKA donation page is up to date for those who may want to help us in this coming year with a tax-deductible donation. If you live in Cambodia, you can make a QR donation to the SAHAKA FOUNDATION bank account.

We are very appreciative of the support we have already received. Without it, we could not be making these life-changing opportunities available for these children who are dependent on the support of the SAHAKA FOUNDATION.

NAMASTE