Siem Reap, KH – Perseverance can light the way in the darkest times – Sep 2025
8 years ago Chadi’s family first joined the Food Always In The Home (FAITH) Garden program and later became part of the Rent-to-Own (RTO) housing community. Their journey was far from easy. When Chadi’s husband, the family’s primary provider, was diagnosed with cancer their lives were turned upside down. Most of their income went toward hospital expenses, leaving them struggling to pay rent and daily necessities. At times, they fell behind on house payments and received warnings that missing three consecutive months could result in cancelation of the house.
Yet, despite these hardships, Chadi’s family never gave up. They showed remarkable resilience, holding on to hope and faith through their most difficult days.
Rey, the RTO community manager, witnessed the pain and hardships the family endured and gave them an opportunity to recover. Sadly, Chadi’s husband eventually passed away from the cancer. Living in the community proved to be a blessing, as neighbors were always willing to help by offering both moral and spiritual support, especially with the active presence of the local church.
To be able to continue staying in the rent to own house, Chandi needed to continue to pay rent. Therefore, she started a small dessert business and also sold organic coffee. Gradually, her business began to improve, allowing her to once again keep up with her rent-to-own payments.
Two years later, Chandi married a kind and supportive man, and together they managed a small shop in the local market.
Chandi shared that the house had truly saved her because when her husband passed away it felt as though her world had collapsed. She explained that without the rent-to-own program, she would not have had the motivation to find ways to earn money to continue paying for the house. Owning a home had been her dream from the very beginning. She is deeply grateful to the community for their patience, understanding, and support throughout her challenging journey.
Her story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of community. Even in the darkest times, perseverance can light the way.
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