Overview

Bible Society Australia is supporting Bible Society Cambodia (BSC) in an emergency relief project to support families displaced by the Cambodia–Thailand border conflict. Through trusted church networks, BSC will provide food, shelter, medical care, and spiritual support to 500 families, bringing comfort, healing, and hope through God’s Word.

The Need

The July 2025 conflict along the Cambodia–Thailand border has left thousands of families vulnerable and traumatised. Over 30,000 civilians fled their homes, many with no access to shelter, food, or medical care. Displaced families are living in forested areas and makeshift camps, exposed to the elements and lacking basic necessities. Children and vulnerable adults are especially at risk.

Beyond physical needs, many are grappling with grief, fear, and spiritual confusion. Some have lost loved ones, others their homes and communities. There is a deep hunger for hope, healing, and answers.

The affected communities are rural and poor, with limited infrastructure and access to formal healthcare. In these areas, the local church is a trusted source of help. Pastors and Christian leaders are respected and relied upon, especially in times of crisis. Christianity is growing in Cambodia, and the church’s reputation for love and service has opened doors for meaningful engagement. This project builds on that trust, offering help that is both immediate and enduring.

Goals

BSC aims to provide immediate relief to 500 displaced families from August to December 2025. Aid will include emergency food, clean water, hygiene kits, and shelter materials. Mobile medical clinics will deliver basic care, prioritising children, elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.

Spiritual support will be offered through trauma healing, pastoral counselling, and distribution of Bibles and Scripture-based materials. Local church partners will lead outreach efforts, combining practical help with prayer and encouragement.

All aid will be delivered through trusted church networks already embedded in the affected communities. This ensures dignity, cultural sensitivity, and long-term followup. The project is designed to meet urgent physical needs while restoring emotional and spiritual hope.

Impact

Aid will be delivered through trusted local churches and Christian leaders. Their presence ensures that help is personal, respectful, and effective. The church’s growing reputation for compassion and service allows BSC to make a meaningful impact, even among non-Christian communities.

Families will receive life-saving aid, protecting them from hunger, illness, and exposure. Trauma counselling and emotional support will help children and adults begin to recover from grief and fear. Safe spaces and trained Christian counsellors will provide comfort and healing.

Spiritual hope will be rekindled through the distribution of Bibles and pastoral visits. Many beneficiaries, both Christian and non-Christian, are seeking answers and comfort. This project offers encouragement through God’s Word and the presence of caring believers.