Did you know that one of the classes some of our clients (who are already employed or have home-based businesses) go to is on money management?
Our team of social workers teach basic financial literacy which includes budget planning and saving, how to maximize their income, as well as provide practical advice and tips on debts. To make the class more engaging, the women are challenged to test their newly-acquired knowledge, and, with the use of play money, identify their needs and wants to create their own budget plans.
Last December, Mother’s Heart threw our annual Christmas party for all the women in our care, their babies, and our carers. It was held in December 19 in Battambang, and December 27 in Phnom Penh. In Battambang, we were joined by some of our donors and partners.
Christmas is one of our favourite holidays and the staff were excited about being able to organize the party for our beneficiaries again. The parties were modest events but seeing our the beneficiaries gathered in one place, our staff spreading cheer, and enjoying each other’s company was heartwarming. It was a joyous celebration with singing and gift-giving, capped by a hearty meal.
One of most poignant moments during the event was when one of our clients shared her sentiments to everybody.
“I am truly grateful for the support that Mother’s Heart has given to me and my baby. When I was cold-shouldered by my own family after learning of my pregnancy, the staff treated me warmly and without judgment, like a family member would. I was at the end of my rope, but with Mother’s Heart, I held on during those difficult times because of the encouragement of my counsellor. I still have a long way to go, but seeing other mothers and their babies here... now, I have hope. For me, for my baby, and for our future.”
Christmas can have wonderful effect on people. It is admirable to see our beneficiaries courageously sharing their stories, smiling and laughing with each other, temporarily leaving behind their day-to-day life to enjoy the Christmas spirit with our little Mother’s Heart community. We are thankful to our supporters and friends for helping us make all this possible.
Ten young mothers and child carers in Battambang recently participated in the food and nutrition class taught by our social worker and midwife in our office there. They were re-introduced to the concepts of food and nutrition and the different food groups. One of the tasks for the participants was identifying nutrients-rich vegetables that are grown locally. There was also a participatory cooking demonstration in which they learned how to prepare a multi-ingredient porridge using vegetables available in the local markets. Other things discussed were food hygiene and safety practices.
Our staff will conduct follow up home visits to check on the mothers and carers and observe any changes in their practice.
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Don’t forget it’s GivingTuesday next week! Donate to Mother’s Heart Organization to help us earn a share of $500,000 in matching funds from Global Giving on #GivingTuesday.
