CHANGING the lives of those less fortunate is the goal of South East residents who will donate dozens of bicycles to children in a small village in Cambodia next month.
Nevyn Wilson is one of the men making the trip to the country’s Srei Nuoy village after setting up a fundraiser earlier this year to raise $5000 to purchase the bicycles.
Mr Wilson and several others have visited the region multiple times, donating items such as food and education packs.
This year’s Bikes for Cambodia idea stemmed from the lack of transportation for students living in remote areas.
“A woman on the ground in Cambodia suggested we buy two or three bikes a year and they can be awarded to the high-achievers,” he said.
“I actually had a problem with that because there is 250 children at the school and some of them live miles away.
“Some students only attend class two or three times a week, due to the long distance required to get to school.”
After doing some research, Mr Wilson discovered they could purchase bicycles in Cambodia for just $47USD.
“I put something out on Facebook and we were able to raise $5000 through donations,” he said.
“So it looks like we are going to be able to get at least 30 bicycles for the students.”
Mr Wilson said the aim was to get as many children as possible to school, so they can get the education they deserve.
He said he looked forward to seeing their eyes light up when the bicycles are donated.
“They have nothing, most of them do not even wear underpants, so you really just want to help where you can,” he said.
“Even despite their situation, they are really happy little children, they have beautiful faces and are always happy to see you.”
While the bicycles have become the main focus for next month’s trip, Mr Wilson said a portion of the money will be used to buy other necessities for the village.
“We will get twenty 50kg bags of rice, 250 educations packs, equipment for the bicycles, such as tyres, pumps and puncture repair kits,” he said.
With the group departing on June 14, Mr Wilson said he was excited for what he expected to be another emotional trip.
“We have got good intentions, whether it all pays off in the end, who knows, but I know that what we are giving them can only help,” he said.
“They are always so welcoming and everything we have donated has been so well-received.”
