The Teen Transition House
The Teen Transition House has been set up to provide accommodation for teenagers from CCT's Home who have reached 18 years of age but, because they are still at school or receiving vocational training, are not yet ready to live independently.
Many underprivileged Cambodian children are unable to attend school at all. This leaves them with very few options in life and vulnerable to falling prey to child labour markets where they can be forced to work hazardous jobs, or even sold into prostitution.
This was the case for some of CCT’s children before we took them under our care. These children did not have the opportunity to start school at the usual age and so will not complete their final year of school by the age of 18.
CCT is committed to catering to the individual needs of all our children, and there are many with a great aptitude for academic study. These kids have the potential, not only to finish school, but also to attain impressive results that will qualify them to continue on to tertiary education. Others, perhaps not academically inclined, are provided with vocational training suited to their skills and interests.
While our young adults still require ongoing support, the controlled environment and strict supervision needed for young children is no longer appropriate for them. They soon yearn for independence and the responsibilities that come with adulthood. The Transition House has been set up in order to provide these young adults with a safe, supportive and supervised environment, while giving them greater independence, freedom and responsibilities.
The Teen Transition House is currently operating under the supervision of a House Mother and House Father. Their role is to ensure physical safety and provide some practical assistance when needed. There are currently seven young adults sharing the two-story house. They receive a monthly allowance through the Foster Parent Sponsor Program which covers their living and study costs. They share the responsibilities of buying groceries, cooking meals and paying bills. CCT’s general budget covers the costs of the rent of the house and the salaries of the House Parents.
This project is an essential part of breaking the cycle of poverty and providing these children with the skills and educational opportunities that will sustain them in the future.
