Latest Foreign Assistance Briefs

- The Japanese Government will provide non-refundable aid to build two primary schools at a total cost of over $242,000. These schools will be built in Quang Ninh and Thanh Hoa provinces, to replace the existing ones.  Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Yasuaki Tanizaki expressed his belief that the new schools will improve the children’s learning environment, contribute to the local socio-economic development, and strengthen the friendship between the two countries. (vovnews.vn Jun 22)

- Two sisters from New Zealand, Sally Hewlett and Kim McVinnie, are cycling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in order to raise US$4.000 for malnourished children in Vietnam. They plan to reach their destination by June 22. Kim McVinnie, 44, signed up to cycle the 700 km from the north to the south of Vietnam after her 38 year old Auckland-based sister Sally Hewlett, who works at ChildFund New Zealand, twisted her arm and had to pull out. On average they have been riding about 80km a day, with a day's rest in between and using some public transport to help them reach their destination. The money raised from the bike ride will go to ChildFund's Vietnam Appeal to reduce malnutrition among children by feeding them a mix of fortified nutrients called "sprinkles". The sisters have also been sampling some to help them complete their challenge. (vov.vn June 22)

- The Worldwide Orphans Foundation, a US-based NGO, has wrapped up a three-year project to support vulnerable children in Vietnam, focusing on kids with HIV and their caregivers. However, speaking at a conference in Ho Chi Minh City on Wednesday, WWO’s Programs Director Mark Beukema, said the organization "will continue to provide support to orphans and vulnerable children in the community.” The project supported more than 1,000 children affected by HIV in Ho Chi Minh City and An Giang through direct services and counseling. More than 250 caregivers from eight self-help groups also received counseling and training on life skills and child care. More than 80 student volunteers joined programs to help kids play guided games. Several caregivers said they themselves used to be shy and did not know how to cope with some situations, but now feel very confident. The project provided library activities and training for children in life skills like communication, coping skills, nutrition, teamwork, and HIV, sex and gender knowledge. (Thanh Nien –Young People June 21)