Donors from Singapore and Hong Kong have helped deliver more than 2,000 “Boxes of Hope” to vulnerable children across three provinces in Cambodia, including those displaced by the ongoing border situation and living in temporary shelters, according to community development NGO This Life.
The initiative targets children whose daily routines, education and sense of safety have been disrupted by displacement, incarceration of caregivers, or prolonged social and economic hardship.
The boxes were distributed over time in temporary shelters for displaced families, correctional facilities where children live with their mothers and community locations identified through local partners.
Each Box of Hope contains essential hygiene items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste and soap, alongside stationery, toys and learning games aimed at supporting continued learning and emotional wellbeing in unstable living conditions.
“This support has been made possible through the generosity of donors and community supporters in Singapore and Hong Kong,” said Billy Gorter, executive director of This Life.
“Their contributions have enabled us to respond in practical ways to children who are facing uncertainty and disruption in their lives,” he added.
Gorter said children affected by displacement are particularly vulnerable to interruptions in learning and routine, which can have long-term consequences if left unaddressed.
“Displacement can interrupt many parts of a child’s life, including learning, routine and a sense of safety,” he noted.
“For children living in temporary shelters during a period of border uncertainty, maintaining access to learning materials and positive activities is especially important,” he explained.
While the circumstances of the children reached by the programme vary, This Life said the approach reflects a commitment to child-centred, respectful responses developed in close cooperation with caregivers and local communities.
Distributions have also included children residing with their mothers in correctional facilities, a group often overlooked in mainstream assistance programmes, as well as children in communities facing persistent economic and social challenges.
“While the circumstances may differ, every child deserves care, protection and opportunities to learn and play,” Gorter said.
This Life stressed that the Boxes of Hope are intended to address immediate needs but are not a substitute for longer-term investment in children’s development.
The organisation said sustained, community-based approaches remain essential to ensuring children’s wellbeing beyond emergency situations.
“Supporting children today helps build stronger communities tomorrow,” Gorter said. “Our work remains focused on practical, respectful action that contributes to children’s learning, wellbeing and sense of belonging.”
This Life is an award-winning community development organisation working in Cambodia to support children and families, strengthen communities and promote locally led solutions to social challenges.
