For more than three decades, Sunrise Cambodia has been transforming the lives of children in Cambodia.

This Christmas, it is partnering with One Park and Oakwood Premier to bring the spirit of giving to some of the Kingdom’s most vulnerable, with the “Box of Joy” initiative, a unique opportunity for the community to support their vital work and ensure that the “most wonderful time of the year” is a happy occasion for all.

Would-be Santas are asked to purchase a gift box to house their donations, for just $1, from the sales gallery lobby at One Park Residence in downtown Phnom Penh. Once they have the box – also available delivered upon request – they should assemble new or lightly used clothes and toys, suitable for the children of Sunrise.

Once the boxes are filled, they should return them to the gallery lobby by December 22. Labels will be provided so that donors can include their name, gift category, item count and appropriate age range for the recipient.

To complete the festive experience, donors should decorate their boxes to reflect the spirit of Christmas. They are invited to use their own supplies, or can use those provided at the gallery for a nominal fee.

Each of the decorated boxes will be delivered to Sunrise Cambodia by One Park, where the children will select the “most festive” and “most creative” designs. The winning philanthropists have the chance to win a range of prizes, thoughtfully provided by the partners of One Park and Oakwood.

A sample selection of the gifts which have been collected by One Park and Oakwood Premier for their ‘Box of Joy’ drive, which will deliver Christmas presents to the orphans of Sunrise Cambodia. Supplied

The campaign will not only guarantee a wonderful Christmas and New Year for deserving children, but also highlights the impactful work of Sunrise.

Founded by Geraldine Cox in 1993, what began as an effort to care for war orphans has evolved into a vital organisation which offers residential care, education and community programmes for some of Cambodia’s most precious resources – the successful citizens of tomorrow.

These children, many of whom have faced trauma, are given a safe home, emotional support and access to education to help them rebuild their lives. Today, more than 60 orphaned, abandoned and at-risk children have a home with the organisation, while hundreds more receive education. 

“The children that come to us have often been trafficked into prostitution, slave labour, begging rings, are victims of domestic violence, were abandoned by their families, have a disability or lived on the streets to survive. As a result, they are in great need emotionally and physically when they arrive at Sunrise. Sunrise provides holistic support to care for their physical and emotional needs and the educational opportunities and counselling they need to reach their full potential,” explained the organisation.

Each of the boxes pictured was hand-decorated by generous donors. The children who receive the gifts will award special prizes for their favourite designs. Supplied

Since the project began, donations have been steadily flowing in. With the goal of delivering 100 decorated gift boxes before Christmas Day, the organisers are inviting the community to join this meaningful campaign and help make this holiday season unforgettable for children in need.

“At One Park, we believe that family is the cornerstone of any community. The 'Box of Joy' initiative is a reflection of this belief – a chance for us to extend the love, warmth, and belonging we cultivate here at One Park to the children of Sunrise Cambodia,” said Anita Cui, deputy general manager of GRED, the Head office of One Park and Oakwood Premier.

“Many of these children have endured unimaginable hardships, and this initiative is our way of helping them see that they are valued, supported and never alone,” she explained.

“Together with One Park, we are delivering more than just holiday gifts – we’re delivering hope, joy and support to children who need it most,” added Demian Jung, general manager of Oakwood Premier.

Before Christmas Day, these beautifully wrapped boxes will be delivered to the children at Sunrise Cambodia, ensuring they experience all of the joy and warmth of the holiday season.