Stories from the Field

Water doesn't change anything. People Do.

As we work to provide water, we're committed to helping people like you meet your global neighbors and to realize that we all share the same basic needs. We hope to break down stereotypes and the false distinctions between the so-called winners and losers, rich and poor, the needy and charitable, by introducing you to the people we serve with the respect and admiration they rightfully deserve.

These are stories of hope, told in the words of those who carry out this work every day - our friends in the field.




See the Impact of Clean Water - A Year Later: No Queues, More Play!

A Year Later: No Queues, More Play!

“Water along this river would only flow for a short period of time throughout the year. Community members had to dig scoop holes to get water for use at their homes which was quite strenuous. It was risky for me to fetch water because the holes were so deep. "At times, I would accompany my mother to the river as she came to wash our clothes then...

See the Impact of Clean Water - A Year Later: A New Dining Hall and an Emphasis on Cleanliness

A Year Later: A New Dining Hall and an Emphasis on Cleanliness

"It was a challenge to keep the classes clean, get clean drinking water, and water was never enough to cook the meals as we would always buy, which was expensive," said Evans. "Now, the school does not strain to get water for use thanks to the water tank. The water can last the entire term and serve all the school’s needs, such as drinking, cook...

See the Impact of Clean Water - A Year Later: From a Nightmare to a Nursery

A Year Later: From a Nightmare to a Nursery

Before the sand dam was constructed in Mbitini Community, Kyambi spent a staggering amount of time fetching water every day. "Getting water was a nightmare," she said, "since we used to walk for long hours. Things have changed because I can access water within a few minutes." With all this spare time, Kyambi has been able to create her own tree nu...

See the Impact of Clean Water - A Year Later: More Time, Better Hygiene

A Year Later: More Time, Better Hygiene

We asked 12-year-old Purity what it was like before this well was installed in her community. The biggest impact on her life was school attendance. "Sometimes, I'd even miss school days for me to stay at home and watch my siblings, as my mother would go to fetch water for long hours." But now, Purity rarely misses school. And hygiene has improved, ...

See the Impact of Clean Water - A Year Later: A Tree Nursery and a Garden on the Way

A Year Later: A Tree Nursery and a Garden on the Way

"Before the construction of this sand dam project, I used to walk for long distances in order to fetch water for use. The river would dry very fast as it is a seasonal river, hence we had to dig very deep scoopholes to access water for basic household uses. A lot of time would be wasted in search of water for use, time that could be expended on oth...