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News
 Water is our most precious resource and many throughout the world do not have access to clean water. We're out to make a difference. By using proceeds from the irrigation work that we are doing here in Cincinnati, we are going to make a difference in Africa because of you. Please call or e-mail us for additional details on the project or to make a donation. We are taking 50% of the money generated from spring start-ups to fund clean water wells in Africa where 80% of disease is due to the lack of clean water. 100% of these funds will be used for clean water wells in Africa. We want to give you a green landscape, but we also feel it is our responsibility to give back and make the water come full circle.
In most cases, a well that is disinfected after drilling and properly maintained will remain clean for the long term. There are exceptions, however. For example, if there is flooding or if cattle are grazed nearby, a well may become contaminated and it must be disinfected again. In some locations ground water may be contaminated with heavy metals, in which case, it must be treated or an alternative source must be found.
These measures, along with the drilling, are undertaken by local organizations and community water committees that are trained in well maintenance and repair. However, even if a well itself is clean, the moment water is drawn from a well, it is very easily contaminated.
For this reason, our local partners train the communities on proper water care, including transport, storage and use. When the well is carefully maintained and those who draw water care for it properly, the incidence of water-borne diseases drops dramatically.
Working with charity:water we are able to send 100% of the money directly to Africa.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
50% of your spring start-up will be used to provide clean water wells throughout Africa, helping to bring health to the region. We encourage you to make a donation above and beyond this and we can help you do so.
Your participation will give Africans the gift of clean water to protect them from life-threatening illnesses. Women and children will no longer walk up to 10 miles a day to get water. People with HIV will live stronger, longer lives. Communities will flourish and be changed. We know that you, too, will be changed by connecting with the people in Africa. Your partnership can help save lives.
The cost of the wells depends on what area the drilling is being done but typically range from $3,500 to $15,000. In the next few months, we'll have the technology in place to show you exactly where the money went, with pictures of the actual wells being built.
Background
Eighty percent of all deaths in developing countries are caused by water-borne illnesses. A significant amount of diseases, including illnesses that affect HIV, can be nearly eliminated with the provision of clean water. Our commitment to addressing the HIV/AIDS crisis requires action on the problem of unsafe water in Africa.
It is difficult to separate AIDS from the problem of unsafe water. Lack of access to clean water creates vulnerable communities with little hope for survival. As the pandemic distresses various parts of a community, there are several ways to promote a positive shift in the problem of AIDS. Providing wells is an important step to building stronger, healthier communities.
"Water and Sanitation is one of the primary drivers of public health. I often refer to it as 'Health 101,' which means that once we can secure access to clean water and to adequate sanitation facilities for all people, irrespective of the difference in their living conditions, a huge battle against all kinds of diseases will be won." Dr. Lee Jong-wook, Director-General, World Health Organization.
"We shall not finally defeat AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, or any of the other infectious diseases that plague the developing world until we have also won the battle for safe drinking water, sanitation and basic health care." ~ Kofi Annan, United Nations Secretary-General
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