On December 30th and 31st, 120 KOTO staff and trainees spent the last days of 2016 in Ngan Son, Bac Can, a small village located in the remote mountainous regions 220 kilometres away from Hanoi. This annual charity trip “Winter Appeal” is a part of the KOTO community service program, which aims to support the underprivileged communities and at the same time, a chance for our trainees to give back to the community and help those less fortunate than themselves.
This year, the event took place in Thuan Mang School, the biggest school in the area. KOTO was able to bring some joy and a new experience for the children of this region as most of therm has never tasted Pho - the Vietnam's signature dish.
Photo: Thang and Hai – 7 years old - could not hide their excitement and happiness.
Photo: KOTO trainees had a great time helping the kids have their first experience of Phở
There were over 1,800 bowls of “Pho” served, more than 600 much needed gifts including blankets, warm socks and school supplies were donated to more than 500 children in the remote villages. Necessities including hygiene products and 2 water filters were also given to the local community.
KOTO trainees and local children also performed dances and songs to entertain the community in the gala night. There were lots of laughs, joys and sharing, together the KOTO team and the locals had an unforgettable bonfire night.
We also would like to express our sincere gratitude to the generous sponsors Childfund organisation, Italisa Sanitary Ware Company, MANHLONG Trade and Tourism Limited Company, Wide Eyes Tour, KOTO alumni and the KOTO staff and trainees for making this event a meaningful and a successful one.
About KOTO
KOTO stands for “Know One, Teach One”. It is a foundation and social enterprise, aiming to educate and empower at-risk and disadvantaged Vietnamese youths. There are now over 1000 graduates and 200 trainees and any one time.