Cultivating Hope: A Journey of Transformation with Best CHOICES
In the rural community of Bakan district, Pursat province, families like Buth Socheng’s are experiencing life-changing transformations, thanks to ADRA Cambodia’s Best CHOICES project. Socheng, a mother of three, recalls how her family once struggled with poor hygiene, unsafe drinking water, and a lack of childcare knowledge, putting her children’s well-being at risk.
For years, she and her husband, Pech Den, worked hard—he as a palm tree climber and she as a vegetable farmer—but something was missing. Without proper guidance, they lacked the understanding of how to properly feed their children, maintain hygiene, and improve their home environment.
Then, ADRA’s Best CHOICES project stepped in. Through Reflect Circle group discussions, Socheng learned positive parenting practices, the importance of nutrition, early childhood learning, hygiene, and gender equality. She embraced Learning Through Play (LTP) with her children, encouraged them to explore their world, and ensured they had access to healthy, balanced meals with homegrown vegetables and fruits.
Beyond just childcare, the project empowered the entire family. Socheng and her husband started working as a team, sharing household responsibilities and supporting each other in raising their children. Pech now helps with childcare and recites Khmer songs and alphabets with their kids, strengthening their bond and early learning.
The impact of ADRA’s intervention didn’t stop there. With newfound knowledge, Socheng improved her home gardening techniques, growing vegetables not just for their family’s consumption but also to sell at the local market, increasing their income and financial stability. She also became an advocate in her community, sharing what she learned with her neighbors, helping other families improve their lives as well.
Today, Socheng’s family thrives with dignity and confidence. They live in a cleaner, healthier environment, communicate openly, and actively participate in their children’s development. Their journey with Best CHOICES has not only transformed their household but has inspired hope across their community.
This incredible transformation is made possible through ADRA Cambodia, in partnership with the Australian Government and ADRA Australia, reinforcing ADRA’s commitment to empowering families, strengthening communities, and building a future of opportunity and hope.
