History

As mentioned in our Overview, the Australia Cambodia Foundation started in September 1993, following the first visit by Geraldine and a friend in July 1993. The helplessness and tragedy of these lost children was so moving that it was impossible not to be motivated.

Small regular monthly donations were solicited by Geraldine and a circle of friends, from individuals, to feed one child. This was how it all started.

At that time Geraldine was working in Sydney for the American corporation, Chase Manhattan Bank, now J. P. Morgan. She applied for a grant from The Chase Foundation in New York, which supported the project for five years with up to US$20,000 annually.

In 2000 we changed the name to Sunrise Children's Village, as it conjures up visions of a new dawn and a fresh beginning for the orphans and disadvantaged children of Cambodia.

In February 1998, our application to the Cambodian Government for the ACF to become a recognised Non Government Organisation was approved. Memorandums of Understanding with the Cambodian Government have to be reviewed and every three years. We have always passed with flying colours.