M’Lop Tapang is an NGO in Sihanoukville that works with local street children. They help more than 2,000 children get the nourishment, shelter and medical care they need.
The organization hopes that by providing street children and their families with shelter, resources and funding, they can help these children transition from the streets of Sihanoukville into more dynamic community roles.
The best way for tourists to get involved is to visit the shop run by the NGO. It sells handicrafts and gifts made by the children, with all the proceeds feeding back into the organization. This lets the children work in a supportive environment, rather than spending days hawking their wares on the beach. It also frees them up so that they can go to school. Facilities are in place for visitors to volunteer or leave a donation if they like.
Getting There
The shop is located just off the road from Sihanoukville to Serendipity Beach (If traveling from Ochheuteal Beach, turn right at the bottom of the hill where the road to Sihanoukville Town turns 90 degrees to the left).
They also have a small shop on the road leading down to Serendipity beach from the Golden Lion traffic circle.
Need to Know
- What is It? An NGO that looks after street kids and their families in Sihanoukville.
- When to Go: Any time of year
- Nearest Town: M’lop Tapang is located along the road leading from Sihanoukville to Ochheuteal/Serendipity Beach. Buses and taxis connect Sihanoukville with Phnom Penh in 4-5 hours via National Route No.4.
- Trivia: In Khmer, M’Lop means ‘shade’ and Tapang is a kind of tree.
- Opening hours: 09:00 to 17:00, daily.
- Entrance fees: no entrance fee.