The community of Sangkat Sras Chak, joined in celebration today as 28 families moved into new housing, built after a tragic fire destroyed their homes and all of their possessions in August last year.

As the ribbon was cut to open the initial homes built for the poorest families, community members expressed gratitude for the immediate and continuing response of the local and international community, which has enabled them to reestablish their lives.

Immediately following the fire, World Vision Cambodia joined with the Municipality, UN-HABITAT, the Royal Palace, Handicap International, political parties, and other NGOs to coordinate an emergency relief distribution for all affected families.

While the initial emergency response included the distribution of food and supply of temporary housing materials, the ongoing commitment has involved a positive partnership with the community which has seen the rebuilding of houses, erection of three bridges and the building of a community library.

During the rebuilding, the community also benefited from training in fire-fighting and disaster prevention.

Mot Sana, World Vision’s Emergency Programme Coordinator, reminded those attending the launch about the importance of preventing similar disasters in future.

“Tragically, two young boys perished in this disaster. We are committed to ensuring that this will not happen again. We have partnered with families in Sras Chak since the disaster not only to improve their physical situation, but to help them protect their personal safety,” said Mot Sana.

Mot Sana explained, “For families living in poverty, disasters are devastating. When the fire destroyed this area last year, the families were not only left without houses, but also lost their means for earning an income.”

“Today we celebrate with the community because we can see there is hope for the future. There is hope not just because of the houses, bridges and library, but because the community now understands how to prevent disaster, and can provide a safer future for their children,” explained Mot Sana.

For more information, please contact:
Mot Sana, Emergency Relief and Disaster Mitigation Programme Coordinator, HP: +855 12 986260
Sok Naly, Communication Coordinator, HP: +855 12 727304