PROJECT 1
Cambodia - Countrywide
Cambodian Refugee-led Humanitarian Mission
Khemaras Center (Pictures by Hongly Khuy, leader)
In 1998-99, the Cambodian refugee community in Hawaii reached out to local organizations in Cambodia to assess needs. As a result, since 2000, in partnership with local Cambodian NGOs and churches, Cambodian refugees in Hawaii have empowered people in Cambodia, especially the homeless, poor, orphans, trauma survivors, elderly, prisoners, and others who struggle to survive daily. The Hawaii refugee community raises funds to support yearlong humanitarian work in Cambodia. And every year since 2000, a refugee-led volunteer team has traveled to Cambodia for a 2-week - Christmas in Cambodia - humanitarian mission. No one receives a salary or gets paid for their work.
Click here to see gallery ‘what we do’ by Hongly Khuy.
In 2002, the Khemaras Center was founded. It is a spiritual and social space for the Hawaii refugee community and others who are interested in supporting lasting peace in Cambodia. Khemaras Center members have partnered with community groups throughout the United States to work in Cambodia. In 2015, the Center led over 60 people to Cambodia on its 2 week Christmas humanitarian mission.
The efforts of the Khemaras Center and local Cambodian partners have resulted in lasting positive changes. Individuals have completed their education and are providing for their families. Over a dozen water wells have been built throughout rural Cambodia. Also, 2 community facilities, educational supplies, computers, bikes, medical supplies and services have been provided in the most remote communities of Cambodia.
If you or organization wants to join us, please email Hongly Khuy directly at honglykhuy@gmail.com or facoba@caluyafoundation.org.