Supporting Students in Cambodia

In 1979, after enduring 4 years under Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge, my grandfather, Ban Hok Ly, fled Cambodia with his 10 children. 

Twelve years ago, my grandfather went back to Cambodia, and visited the school that his father, my great-grandfather, had built; the school had miraculously survived the Khmer Rouge, even though most schools at that time were burned to the ground. The school was in need of supplies to continue educating the young children that attended it. So, my grandfather generously bought the needed supplies to give to the young students.

And now, since the recent passing of my grandfather, I wish to do the same. I've set a goal of $5000 to help send me & my mom to Cambodia, and to buy the supplies needed for my great-grandfather's school once we are there.  

My grandfather was, and still is, my role model; no matter what he went through, he still acted generously towards others, and always looked for ways that he could help. He is my inspiration in so many things. 

I would be extremely grateful to anyone who will help me give back to the country that my grandfather and my mother are from. I want to be able to give these children in Cambodia the opportunity to have an education, like I was so fortunate to have. 

Education is a powerful tool and it has the power to change a child's life in Cambodia. 

My name is Marissa Vergel de Dios and I am 17 years old. 

Thank you