Supporting the Marginalized: Metta Karuna Project in Cambodia
In 2024, the Jesuit Service Cambodia carried out the Metta Karuna Project in the provinces of Banteay Meanchey and Siem Reap to uplift the lives of people with disabilities (PWDs) and rural poor communities. With the generous support of Jesuit Mission Germany, the project focused on mobility, education, livelihood, and ecological awareness, serving thousands of individuals with dignity and compassion.
Restoring Mobility and Dignity
One of the core components of the project was wheelchair services for PWDs. Across 12 districts, 138 broken wheelchairs were repaired, and 138 new ones were distributed, restoring independence and dignity to recipients. Follow-up visits ensured that needs were addressed and services adapted to real-time challenges.
Empowering Lives Through Education
To break the cycle of poverty, the project provided scholarships and school essentials to underprivileged children and youth. Over 100 students benefited from rice scholarships, school supplies, uniforms, and bicycles, enabling regular school attendance even in remote areas. Teacher training programs also strengthened rural education systems, enhancing long-term impact.
Responding to Urgent Needs
Many families, particularly those affected by disability, received emergency rice support and basic supplies. Home gardens were introduced for sustainable food access and small income generation. In total, over 110 families were supported with rice aid, health assistance, or agricultural help.
Fostering Ecological Awareness
The project’s ecology component reached over 1,100 students and several rural communities. Activities included training on organic gardening, tree planting, and climate-resilient agriculture. The restoration of a local water stream in Siem Reap highlighted the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship in response to climate change.
