Emergency aid distribution by The Cambodian Red Cross held at Uppalavatey Pagoda in Kroch Chhmar district on July 3, 2026. (Agence Kampuchea Press)
On July 3, The Cambodian Red Cross (CRC) distributed emergency assistance to 800 vulnerable households in Thbong Khmum province as Cambodia faces mounting challenges from the 2026 El Niño-driven heatwave.
The relief operation took place at Uppalavatey Pagoda in Kroch Chhmar district and was led by Dr Uy Samonn, Director of the CRC’s Disaster Management Department. The mission was undertaken on the instructions of CRC President Samdech Kittiprittpundit Bun Rany Hun Sen, with funding drawn entirely from public donations collected during World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day on May 8.
During the event, Dr Samonn conveyed the CRC President’s concern for communities affected by the extreme weather, stressing the organisation’s commitment to ensuring that vulnerable people receive timely support and that no one is overlooked during the crisis.
Each beneficiary household received a package comprising 30 kilogrammes of rice, a box of instant noodles, 10 tins of sardines, six bottles of soy sauce, two bottles of cooking oil, two bottles of shampoo, a basic household essentials kit and 20.000 Cambodian riel (5 US dollars) in cash to help ease immediate living costs.
In addition to providing humanitarian assistance, the CRC organised public awareness sessions focusing on maternal and infant health, the prevention of chronic illnesses and practical measures for adapting to increasingly severe heat conditions. The initiative aimed to strengthen community resilience as temperatures continue to rise across the country.
Support was also extended to the monastic community at Uppalavatey Pagoda. The pagoda received 200 kilogrammes of rice, food supplies, beverages and five million cambodian riel (1,250 US dollar). The chief monk was presented with two million Cambodian riel (500 US dollar), while each of the 12 resident monks received 400.000 Cambodian riel (100 US dollar). Elderly devotees were additionally provided with white cloth and financial assistance, reflecting the CRC’s broader effort to protect both religious communities and vulnerable citizens during the ongoing climate emergency.
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