A Year Later: Improved Academic Performance!

January, 2023

A year ago, your generous donation helped Ngongo Community in Kenya access clean water – creating a life-changing moment for Hellen. Thank you!

A Year Later: Improved Academic Performance!


Before we helped build a sand dam in Ngongo Community last year, people used to walk many kilometers to collect water from scoop holes in the dry river bed, leaving them exhausted.

"In the past, I had to walk about up the steep hills carrying water from the distant water point because we are required to carry water to school each morning. This exercise was grueling and time-consuming, leaving me with little time to focus on my academic studies or play with my friends," said 12-year-old Hellen M. "Conducting personal hygiene and sanitation was an occasional and onerous ordeal because water had to be used sparingly at home."

But now that water is located closer to home, Hellen finds it easier to collect water.

"The installed water point is easily accessible, and I spend not more than 15 minutes fetching water. The shallow well offers clean water for drinking and cooking; thus, meals are prepared on time at home. Unlike the open scoop holes, the shallow well’s clean water is free from animal, wind, and human contamination because it is protected. Thus, I am no longer exposed to water-related infections such as typhoid and amoeba," said Hellen.

"My academic performance has improved because I do not have to walk several kilometers searching for water and get more [time] to study and play. Better academic performance will enable me to access better career opportunities in [the] future so that I can help my community as well. My personal hygiene and sanitation have also improved, enabling me to be comfortable with higher self-esteem," concluded Hellen.

Hellen collecting water from the well attached to the sand dam.



See The Water Project in Hellen's Community »

When you invest in The Water Project, you're investing in people like Hellen. Your gifts help us reach more communities with the gift of clean, safe water. And every drop helps unlock potential.

Read More Stories From the Field »