The First Hand fundraising team is a passionate, diverse group of international women based in Singapore, united by a powerful common goal: raising funds for vulnerable children and families in Cambodia. Now in our 16th year of fundraising, we are proud to continue supporting two remarkable organizations—Damnok Toek and Mother’s Heart.
In January, our team had the privilege of visiting Damnok Toek, where new volunteers had their first opportunity to meet the leadership team and gain a deeper understanding of how they provide critical protective services for children and youth, including those with disabilities. These services are designed to prevent harm and abuse, reaching 1,700 children and families who benefit from their programmes every day.
During our two-day visit, we explored several key areas of Damnok Toek’s work, visiting their Residential Centre, Day Care Centre, and Futures Office. We had the chance to witness their outreach efforts, interact with children in their learning environments, and even participate in sports and art classes. As a team, we also helped by repainting playground areas, making the equipment brighter and fresher for the children. We were also able to deliver a van load of essential donations, including clothing, shoes, and toys, which were greatly appreciated.
In May, our team will return to Cambodia to visit Mother’s Heart in Phnom Penh, an organisation dedicated to supporting young girls and women facing crisis pregnancies, often alone and without family support. This trip will also include a visit to Neok Loueng to understand more of Damnok Toek’s disability outreach programs, which focus on assisting the most impoverished and marginalised families in the area. These trips are self-funded by each participant, which ensures that 100% of the funds we raise go directly to where it’s needed most.
How do we raise the funds? Every year, we host a glamorous fundraising gala. This past November, around 150 guests joined us for a night of dining, dancing, and celebration at one of Singapore’s iconic black and white bungalows. Thanks to the generosity of our incredible sponsors—including Mandala Club, Shangri-La, The British Club, Shang Antiques, and Coca-Cola—we were able to raise almost $85,000 that evening. With over 40 sponsors supporting the event, we were able to make a significant impact on the beneficiaries of the programmes.
First Hand is committed to raising and distributing funds to support the work of our partners, Mother’s Heart and Damnok Toek. The funds raised already have made a tremendous difference, and we are excited to see the continued growth and impact of their programs.
If you’re interested in volunteering or learning more about our efforts, please feel free to contact us via email or follow us on social media. We also invite you to join us at our AGM on March 17th at 8 pm at Leedon Residences to learn more about how you can be part of this community.
Thank you for your ongoing support! Together, we can continue to make a difference.
