Alternative Taiwanese
One year ago, TOPS phased out two programs: a street people's center and the organization's sole Cambodian primary school cluster system, the latter of which was also running training programs for educators and administrators.
These two programs were designated model programs by the Cambodian government.
In the absence of official diplomatic relations between Taiwan and Cambodia, many Taiwanese ask TOPS volunteers why they are so dedicated to Cambodia.
"Humanitarian aid breaks down national boundaries," say TOPS volunteers.
Some Taiwanese businessmen support TOPS in various ways, ranging from small amounts of money, factory outlet clothes, shoes from their factories, and free medical treatment for certain villagers chosen by TOPS.
"TOPS volunteers are alternative Taiwanese in Cambodia," said a Taiwanese farm owner. "They really come here to provide help instead of taking advantage of the cheap labor in this country."
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