On Route to Cambodia with Habitat for Humanity
Posted On: Wednesday, 2 February 2011
While Wintec is in full swing with orientation and the start of semester one, 14 Wintec staff members will be a world away in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
The group make up Habitat for Humanity’s New Zealand Global Village Team and will be building two houses in one of Siem Reap’s villages for two local families.
Both houses will be built in Tatork village, Puok commune, Puok district, Siem Reap province. One of the houses is being built for a single mother, enabling her to live independently with her son rather than sharing a house with 10 family members. The second house will be home for a young couple and their baby daughter.
Mere Smith is one of the volunteers and is thrilled to be helping these families. “Doing a Habitat for Humanity build is something I have considered for several years now. I want to give my time to support others. It’s about compassion,” she says.
The one-week build is part of Habitat’s Housing and Community Development Project in Siem Reap. The project delivers housing solutions for 400 families through the construction of houses, repairs and renovations, improvements to water and sanitation, and skills training.
Wintec’s sends staff to an international Habitat for Humanity building project every two years. This is the third visit, with previous trips to India and Vietnam.
Wintec chief executive Mark Flowers says: “Through our partnership with Habitat for Humanity, Wintec is able to offer assistance to countries like Cambodia. To provide basic housing or access to clean water can mean the world of difference for local families.
“The visits are eagerly anticipated by staff who benefit not only through giving something back to a community in need, but also by experiencing another culture firsthand.”
Nic Greene, Habitat for Humanity’s general manager agrees saying: “The adventure of a Global Village expedition will have an impact on all involved long after the trip is over.”