Cambodian Community Fundraiser
Last month, a community of Cambodian refugees in Long Beach held their second fundraising event to honor Kidsave’s work in Ukraine. The group’s organizers were individuals forced to flee their homes when the Khmer Rouge invaded Cambodia. One year ago, they saw one of our photos of a Ukrainian girl kissing her dad goodbye and knew they had to act.
This year’s event – led by Chanwantha “Sam” Limon – was attended by folks from the Long Beach Cambodian community and LADCFS representatives. Sam generously hosted the event in her own backyard, as this is a cause she strongly believes in.
“The Cambodian American Community understands because not too long ago, we were in the same situation as the Ukrainians,” said Sam. “Our stories were of pain and suffering. However, with hope and the help of organizations like Kidsave, we were given a second chance in life.” Sam’s hope and belief in humanity is unwavering, despite the circumstances. “The human spirit is powerful, so we must spread hope,” she said. “Many Cambodian Americans understand the pain and suffering of the Ukrainians, and we stand with Ukraine and will continue to pray for you.”
Throughout the event, Cambodians shared their harrowing tales of survival and how their struggle allowed them to empathize with Ukraine. Sam’s sister, Sunthara, was among those who shared her story.
“I was one of the Cambodian genocide survivors, and the war separated me from my husband,” she said. “America rescued my two young daughters and me and gave us the freedom to live.” Now, she’s using her second chance at life and paying it forward. “This is why I support Kidsave’s mission to rescue children and families,” she said. “God bless Ukraine.”
Although the stories and reflections shared were very emotional, the energy at the event remained positive, grateful and determined to help. Speaking with Dr. Suely Saro, Long Beach’s 6th District Councilwoman, shed more light on the value of this work to her and this unique Cambodian community.
“We are all humanitarians because we care and want to help people, especially children,” she said. “As a Cambodian American, I believe it is important that we support other communities because we understand first-hand the effects of war and genocide, post-traumatic stress disorder, resettlement challenges such as language and cultural barriers, and inter-generational trauma.”
The event included raffle items consisting of various treasures – mugs, teak furniture, hotel stays, and traditional Cambodian cloth, to name a few. Thanks to an anonymous donor who agreed to match the day’s gifts, the Cambodian community has raised over $20,000 for Ukrainian refugees through fundraising events like this one.
About Kidsave Ukraine
Kidsave, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charity, helps older children and teens living in U.S. residential facilities, foster homes, group homes, and orphanages overseas find forever families and lasting connections. A volunteer-driven effort, Kidsave has been working tirelessly to rescue Ukrainians and provide humanitarian aid since the start of the crisis.
