This project has been completed under the direction of Peace Corps Volunteer Lindsey DiLoreto.
To read about the beginning of the project, CLICK HERE.
The project was to improve the sanitation facilities at the school by replacing three handwashing sinks.
Lindsey reports:
We are proud to report that the Oleksandrivka School Bathroom Project has been completed! The community was so eager and willing to complete the project that even though the receipt of funding fell days before several Ukrainian holidays, the work was completed within two weeks by volunteers who chose to work through their vacations.
First, the old sinks, wall and floor tiles, and old plumbing were torn out. This included some pipes that were buried in the concrete floor and walls.
Water Charity funds were used to purchase the sinks and materials, including pipe, fittings, fixtures, soap dispensers, tile, and trim. Community members and the volunteer purchased these items at bazaars in the nearby regional center, since not all of the items are available for purchase in the village. Additionally, community members contributed their own funds to purchase the rest of the needed items not covered by Water Charity.
After purchase of the materials, volunteers from the community installed a new connection to the main water line, and then completed the wall and floor tile work. After this, the new sinks were installed and connected with the main water line, and the soap dispensers were placed next to each sink.
Students and staff at Oleksandrivka School now have a handwashing station with three sinks available for their use. Only one out of three of the old sinks was functional before, and this discouraged students from adopting healthy sanitation practices. With the new repairs and installations, students and staff are both enabled and motivated to practice healthy habits.
We are grateful to Lindsey for completing the project, and again extend our thanks to James Berg and Lindsey’s friends and family for providing the funding.
