Ouk Sophat

Ouk Sophat joined the project in August of 2010. She has nine children; three of her children are between the ages of six and 15 and six of her children are older than 15. She also cares for two grandchildren. In the past, most of the children worked in the Thai market or stayed at home doing housework rather than attending school. Now, all of the school-aged children attend regularly.

Previously to making carpets, Ouk Sophat earned $48.30 each month until 2009. Now she earns an average income with CfC of $12o per month. Additionally, one of her children sells belts and earns about $2.25 each day to support the family. The family does not overspend and has no outstanding loans, but Ouk Sophat wishes they had capital so she could run a business for one of her sons.

The family’s health is not good. One of Ouk Sophat’s sons (age: 17) has a “brain problem”, which is suspected to be Down Syndrome although medical knowledge for such conditions are very lacking in Cambodia. Ouk Sophat suffers from heart problems and takes medicine every day, which costs $1 to $2.50. Thankfully, the local public hospital offers free treatment.

Because of her increased disposable income, Ouk Sophat notes that working with CfC allows her to pay off old debts, but more importantly, gives her children a chance to study every day. And, if she pays attention to her own health, she can live longer to support all her children and achieve her goal of running her own business.