Phearom Phatana

Phatana is a 12-year-old student from a poor family living in Srama Village, Bos Mon Commune, Romdoul District, Svay Rieng Province, Cambodia. In 2026, she is studying in Grade 6. She is a good and hardworking student who is determined to continue her education despite the difficult circumstances she faces.

Every day, Phatana walks approximately 3 kilometers from her home to school, which takes about 50 minutes. Occasionally, she is able to ride a bicycle with a friend, but this is not always possible. Because of the long distance and lack of transportation, she sometimes arrives late at school or is absent.

Phatana’s family faces serious financial hardship. Her grandparents depend on small-scale chicken raising and selling Nom Banh Chok to earn a living. Their income is very low, at approximately US$20 per person per month. Phatana’s parents are divorced and no longer live with the family or provide regular support. As a result, Phatana and her sister now live with their grandparents, who are responsible for caring for them.

The family has four members:

1. Grandmother: Chab Chambey, 57 years old
2. Grandfather: Chan Botum, 61 years old
3. Phearom Phatana: 12 years old, Grade 6 student
4. Phala Rotanak: 12 years old, Grade 6 student

With such a limited income, the family struggles to cover basic daily expenses, including food, healthcare, and the children’s educational needs.

Phatana faces many challenges in continuing her education. She wakes up early every morning to help with household chores, such as cleaning, before going to school. She does not have sufficient school materials and often wears old clothes to school.

Her breakfast usually consists of leftover rice and food from the previous evening. She also brings a bottle of water from home every day. Due to her family’s difficult financial situation and transportation challenges, her school attendance is sometimes irregular.

Despite these difficulties, Phatana is eager to continue her education. She is hardworking and wants to attend extra classes to improve her knowledge and learning. However, her grandparents cannot afford the additional educational costs.

Request for Support

Phatana’s family is requesting US$30 per month to help her continue her education. The support will contribute to:

• A bicycle to reduce her travel time and help her attend school more regularly.
• School uniforms so she can attend school with appropriate clothing.
• Extra classes to strengthen her learning and improve her academic performance.
• Learning materials such as notebooks, pens, and other essential school supplies.

A monthly contribution of US$30 would make a meaningful difference in Phatana’s education and help reduce the financial barriers that currently affect her schooling. With this support, she will have a better opportunity to attend school regularly, improve her learning, and continue working toward a brighter future.