We all need something to feel proud of. For some of us that might mean pride in our education, our big careers, or our beautiful homes. But what if you don't have these? That's when children can become even more important, a source of self respect and hope which can keep a whole family going when life seems almost impossibly hard.
Sokmeas is one of the proudest parents we know. Despite his own lack of education, a difficult past and extreme shyness, Sokmeas often grabs visitors passing his modest home to show them the many certificates of academic achievement his only son, Ahron, has collected throughout his years of studying with CCF. Supportive parents can make such a difference.
He's not alone. Peer inside the dark shacks in which many families in Steung Meanchey live and you will often find such certificates tacked to tin walls, or faded photographs of children in school. For most of these parents, giving their children the education they were denied may be their biggest achievement in life, and their greatest hope for the future.