To give or not to give?

When I arrived at the volunteer house I got talking to some volunteers that are working at the rural schools in Takeo and have spent some time at NFO.


When I was asking about what the places were like and trying to get some ideas as to what we (that's all you kind people that have generously donated and I) could spend the money on to ensure it was spent on things that were needed and and the children would appreciate the feedback I received left me a little bothered and here is why...

I was told that the children at the orphanage were not materially short of things and they were well looked after well in comparison to the rural schools that very little. This left me with the impression that the money should be spent at the schools as opposed to the orphanage.

The orphanage is a happy home for the children and well equipped to look after, entertain and teach them all.
When I went to the school in Little Po it was clear from the moment I saw the children that they come from underprivileged backgrounds, whilst they were all clothed with footwear they were arguably in need of some feeding and a dentist, however, the children all appear to be happy and healthy.

On the one hand therefore there is one set of children who don't have the love and affection from their family but do have access to some material items but by no means are spoilt - far from it. On the other hand however, is a set of children who don't have any material items but are living with their families in a typical family environment but are doing more than that should be expected of a child. Is it fair to say one of these groups of children is better off than the other? I would argue not.

I can't even begin to imagine what life would be like without the love and support from my family, but I equally question if I had to help out on a farm and household chores would I be where I am today i.e. with the luxury of having an education to enable me to look after myself.

I don't think any of us are in a position to say that either of these groups are better off than the other; if buying a few things (NOT to the detriment of the children at the schools) will put a smile on the faces and bring some happiness to the children at the orphanage is it the wrong way to spend the donations? I decided that it wouldn't and so for starters it was flip flops all round for the children at the orphanage and let me tell you I have never seen a group of children look so happy to receive a pair of basic flip flops.

Tomorrow shopping for the orphanage and the schools continue!