The Street Kids of Cambodia run the streets trying to sell various things, such as bracelets and headbands that they themselves made, to earn a small income for their families (they are so good at bargaining with you, and it's so hard to not buy everything from all the kids). And at night, if they have a sponsor, they are able to attend night school to learn English. These kids are incredibly smart, but with little direction of where to go. There are various programs in Sihanoukville that help these kids get a good nutritious meal a day as well as giving them a safe place to hang out and play during the day and express who they are.
Some other G-wood (friends of ours that also are from Glenwood Springs) are volunteering at Cambodian Children's Painting Project - www.artcambodia.org.
This little girl sitting on my lap has clung to me since I walked in the door at the Cambodian Children's Painting Project. Every time I ask for her name or try to talk with her I get no response, but as soon as I put her down she is clinging to my skirt waiting to be held again. Today I finally got her to sing the ABC's with me as well as count to 50 while clapping our hand and laughing the entire time, but once that was over she wouldn't say anything else. I was told that she is about 10 years old, although she looks to be no more than 5. (it is rather shocking to learn all the little kids ages)
Here is Ella (to the left) and Bridget with some of the street kids that have been sponsored through SCKEF. Most of these kids attend night school to learn English. With a scholarship they will be able to continue their education - check out the website again... kidsofcambodia.org
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