As of today, hundreds of Cambodian families have gained access to vital relief funds after Wing (Cambodia) Limited Specialised Bank opened its network to Oxfam Cambodia and its partners to help provide immediate aid to workers affected by the economic downturn of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In September, Oxfam partnered with Wing to transfer cash to approximately 3,000 vulnerable workers and other community members, including local leaders and labour representatives. Oxfam also distributed Covid-19 prevention kits to 1,000 members of its network of partner organizations.

Wing CEO Manu Rajan said the bank’s initiative with Oxfam was part of Wing’s ongoing efforts to help Cambodian families make ends meet during these trying times.

“As a responsible corporate citizen, it’s necessary that we go above and beyond to support the people. Wing is ready and willing to join with partners and communities to protect Cambodians through these challenging times,” Manu said.

Considering the unprecedented Covid-19 situation, Wing has launched various initiatives focused on helping those who have lost their sources of income. This has included a fundraising to support tuk-tuk drivers and tour guides, as well as the Angkor Hospital for Children, which provides treatment to young patients for free.

In March, Wing launched Wing-to-Wing fund transfers free of charge to all its customers in Cambodia, allowing them to use the Wing Money App to send money to loved ones from the safety of home.

“Along with various responses from the government, private sector and individuals to support workers during this difficult time, Oxfam and partners believe that the immediate support we have given to worker’s representatives is equally important.

“Today’s event has reflected our solidarity with partners from different associations, unions, NGOs, institutional donors, the government and private sector working together to assist the most vulnerable communities in Cambodia. Together with relevant parties, we are working to promote more inclusive social protection programmes for vulnerable workers, especially women and children, to reduce their anxiety and increase resilience for present and future crises,’’ said Oxfam Country Director Solinn Lim.

Oxfam has played a positive role in advocating Cambodian humanitarian causes since 1979 with dedicated focus on development, gender equality, and natural resource governance.

Given the wide effects of the pandemic, Wing is extending its financial services to many partners helping the public. Beyond Oxfam, this has included government agencies and non-governmental organisations.

Since May, Wing has extended its support to the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training to disburse financial support to workers suspended from the garment manufacturing and tourism sectors. As of June, the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans and Youth Rehabilitation has used Wing financial services to disburse a monthly allowance to people who are vulnerable or living in poverty.