The Growing Difference that a School Lunch Program is making!

Lunch time at Chanserey Elementary School, in Western Cambodia, is the daily highlight for students! HOPE, in partnership with Kinder Kids International School, supported the construction of the school building and installed a well there in 2009, and on further assessment of needs, started the lunch program from 2012.

SraiKayle is a girl in 5th grade, who told us that not only does she enjoys the delicious meals each day, but that it also helps her concentrate in class because she doesn’t feel hungry anymore. Prior to the start of the lunch program, many children were only able to eat two meals a day at best and struggled to concentrate. This is no longer the case, as all the students are well fed and receiving proper nutrition.

With HOPE's well in the school compound, students can also keep their dishes and cooking materials clean. It is endearing to watch the older students taking turns to help the younger ones to wash their utensils properly. The knowledge and awareness of health and sanitation is spreading now not only within school, but also to families and communities through these children.

The school is also endeavouring to provide the best environment for students. The principal, Montela, is now building eating areas in the yard, so that children can enjoy their lunches under a beautiful blue sky and the shade of big trees.

The attitudes of students and teachers who are taking the initiative to make life better and nurture the children’s futures are, at the end of the day, the key elements that are making a difference now in Chanserey Elementary School!