LOCAL ORGANIZATION CounterCulture International’s partners, Stitches of Hope Development Centre

CAMBODIA is a developing country in Southeast Asia with a population of approximately 17 million people. While the nation has experienced significant growth in recent decades, many families—especially in rural provinces—continue to face poverty and limited access to education and resources. The primary language is Khmer, although English is commonly spoken among younger generations and in many community ministries and educational settings.

A TYPICAL SCHEDULE while in Cambodia will focus on serving alongside the team at the Stitches of Hope Community Centre in Chrey Vien, located in Kampong Cham Province. Our primary ministry will be working with children in the education center through Bible studies, Vacation Bible School–style activities, games, and meal programs. In addition to children’s ministry, the team will also participate in hands-on projects such as painting and light construction or property improvements to help strengthen the community center. Days will generally begin in the morning and run through the late afternoon or early evening, with most evenings open for local exploration and informal fellowship. Each day will close with a team recap and devotional time.

LODGING will be arranged in safe, comfortable accommodations such as guest houses or host homes equipped with standard amenities including bathrooms, electricity, and internet access. However, as with many developing regions, occasional disruptions to power or internet service may occur. Team members will typically be assigned shared rooms separated by gender.

FOOD will consist primarily of local Cambodian cuisine including rice, vegetables, noodles, and locally prepared dishes with chicken, pork, or fish. Meals are generally safe and freshly prepared, though team members are advised to avoid drinking unfiltered tap water and instead rely on bottled or purified water provided during the trip. Breakfast is typically served at the lodging location, while lunch and dinner may be shared with the local community or enjoyed at nearby restaurants (some meals may be at personal expense).

The WEATHER in Kampong Cham Province is typically warm and humid year-round, with temperatures generally ranging from the mid-70s to the low-90s. Cambodia experiences a tropical climate with a rainy season typically from May through October and a drier season from November through April. Lightweight clothing, sun protection, and staying hydrated will be important for comfort during ministry activities.

TRAVEL to Cambodia involves long international travel. Most itineraries depart from the United States with connecting flights through major international hubs before arriving in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. From Phnom Penh, the team will travel by private transportation approximately 2–3 hours to Kampong Cham Province where we will be staying and serving. Local travel throughout the trip will be arranged through trusted drivers and private transportation.

SAFETY concerns in Cambodia are generally low when appropriate precautions are taken. As with any international mission trip, there are inherent risks associated with travel and working in developing regions. Team leaders and local partners will provide guidance and safety protocols to ensure that the wellbeing of the team remains a top priority throughout the trip.

FUNDRAISING to help cover the cost of your mission trip is how most team members choose to participate. CCI utilizes Donorbox to help facilitate tracking fundraising goals and generating personal links to share with individuals who may be interested in supporting the mission. Once CCI approves your application, we will send you all the information you need to get this set up. CCI is a 501(c)(3) organization, and all donations made through CCI are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law (we cannot provide tax-deduction documentation for any funds received directly by an individual).