Out of the ashes of Cambodia's wars and genocide, a new generation of Cambodians is emerging, full of hope and energy. However, conditions are still very harsh and extreme poverty is widespread. Opportunities are increasing, but are still limited.

The Cambodian Children's Painting Project (CCPP) is a Cambodian registered non-governmental and non-profit organisation committed to the objective of providing a cultural and social platform for the beach children of Sihanoukville. Our aim is to give the children a creative perspective, a safe environment and a positive chance to develop their imagination and skills through artistic painting as the core activity, and through the sale of their paintings to generate some basic income for themselves and for their family needs. Further, we aim to connect artistic expression to general education, and to help them pursue their regular schooling.

The painting project is a big success; the on-going enthusiasm and creativity is amazing. More importantly, the children have greatly enhanced their self-esteem and now form a much more friendly and cohesive group. The project is opening a window of opportunity for them, allowing them to be creative and to express themselves, to earn an income, and most importantly to learn about other alternative possibilities for empowerment through work, education and art.

However, if the children are to continue to benefit from the programme, funds are urgently needed to keep the project going.