An Isle of Wight bathroom retailer is raising funds to return to Cambodia in 2027 and continue supporting children, families and a rural primary school following years of hands-on work in the country.
Jaren Bathrooms, based in Lake, is raising funds for their 2027 Cambodia School Project, which aims to build on work already carried out to improve everyday life for pupils and residents in a village near Siem Reap for what will be the 7th year.
The project is spearheaded by Jaren Bathrooms owner Steve Marsh, from Sandown, who has a long history of volunteering overseas.
Steve previously spent 19 years travelling to Romania to assist with building projects, including work on a children’s centre, before turning his attention to Cambodia.
His involvement with Preah Trapang Primary School, in Chey village outside Siem Reap, began with efforts to improve access to water and has developed into a much wider programme of support.
Over the years, Steve and fellow volunteers have helped improve facilities for pupils and teachers, including increasing water storage capacity and providing solar power.
During last year’s work, children and adults in the village were also provided with bicycles, basic school supplies, clothing and food, while volunteers helped with the teaching of basic English.
The team has described the experience of working alongside the community as both rewarding and humbling.
Previous work has also sought to improve conditions for teachers working at the remote school.
Teachers had faced lengthy journeys to reach the village and previously slept on the floor during the working week, with villagers providing them with food. The project has since helped provide improved accommodation.
Supporters have also previously supplied pupils with essentials such as footwear, hats, pens, books and pencils, while solar panels have been installed to provide electricity within classrooms.
Fundraising is now underway to enable the team to continue its work in 2027, with Jaren Bathrooms encouraging Islanders to support the next stage of the project.
Those behind the initiative say even relatively small donations can make a significant difference to the community.
The business is also inviting anyone interested in the project to find out more or explore ways of getting involved.
Jaren Bathrooms has said:
“Last year we provided children and adults in the village with bicycles, basic school supplies, solar electricity, clothes, food and the teaching of basic English.
“A very wholesome and rewarding experience.
“If you would like to find out more, get involved or are even able to donate, please ask one of the team for some information.
“Thank you for your support.”
Further information about the fundraising and the 2027 Cambodia School Project is available from the team at Jaren Bathrooms.
Donations can be made via the GoFundme page here.
