Prior to the creation of Anjali House, almost all of our children were begging, collecting rubbish or selling souvenirs, such as postcards, books and flowers to tourists on the streets of Siem Reap in order to help support their families. Often they were not allowed to return home until a sufficient amount of money had been obtained and would spend hours roaming the streets looking for ways to earn enough.

Many were malnourished and ill due to lack of food, clean drinking water and adequate healthcare. Many were unable to attend school because their families could not afford the associated costs, or because they were required to work on the streets during school hours.

Since the centre opened the children's overall health has improved as a result of regular nutritious meals provided by Anjali, access to hygienic wash facilities and regular medical and dental treatment. They are all attending public school and receiving tuition at Anjali to help them catch up and achieve high grades in their exams.

They are embracing the opportunity to learn new skills and make new friends, and importantly, they finally have the chance to behave like kids, playing games and having fun, without the pressure of having to earn money for their families.