We are pleased to announce the implementation of our new Cambodia Water and Sanitation Program. The first phase of the program is budgeted at $60,000. Funding has already been received from a U.S.-based foundation in the amount of $25,000.
The program is being implemented at once, with the intention of raising the remaining funds through donations and grants over the next several months. This will allow for a regular and continuous flow of projects over the coming year.
The program seeks to complete 20 water, sanitation, public health, and environmental projects in the neediest rural villages of Cambodia. The projects will be cost-effective, using appropriate technology and local labor. They will be administered by Peace Corps Volunteers and Returned Peace Corps Volunteers. Each project will be planned and implemented quickly and completed in a matter of months.
Many of the projects will be aimed at creating conditions that further the goal of allowing girls to go to, and remain in, school, and will be included under our Let Girls Learn Initiative – Worldwide.
Today, there are over 100 Peace Corps volunteers stationed in Cambodian villages. In addition, there are over 400 Returned Peace Corps Volunteers who have served in the country since 2007, some of whom will be available to manage projects.
The Cambodia Water and Sanitation Program is designed to counteract the following conditions:
6.3 million out of 14.9 million Cambodians are unable to access clean drinking water, most of them poor and living in rural areas.
The lack of access to clean water leaves Cambodian children vulnerable to diseases, such as diarrhea, the second leading cause of death among children under five.
40% of primary schools and 35% of health centers in the country do not have access to safe water and sanitation.
Water Charity was started in 2008, and projects began in Cambodia in 2009. Since then, 76 projects have been completed in the country, including wells, pumps, latrines, handwashing stations, water systems, rainwater catchment systems, and towers, along with filter projects, agriculture projects, and solar/environmental projects.
The new program follows the model of our extremely successful WHOLE WORLD Water Program – Cambodia, which was completed in 2015
We are seeking donations from foundations, other nonprofits, businesses, and individuals who recognize the value of our model. Please direct any questions you may have to mail@watercharity.com or contribute now by clicking on the Donate button below.
