Project Funded: Clean Water in Ile Lambi, and Corail, Haiti

One of the most compelling reasons I have chosen to fundraise for the Blue Planet Run Foundation is that I am able to see exactly where the funds are directed through their online community called the ‘Peer Water Exchange’. With this model, donors can gather information about the need, the issues, the community, and the approaches for gaining access to safe drinking water. I am able to select several projects around the world with the first project currently being implemented in Haiti.

The community receiving funding is on Lambi Island, where there is no potable water source. The nearest source of water is 4 hours away (3 hours by boat and then 1 hour on foot). And I thought rowing an ocean sounded difficult! When they are unable to gather jugs of water from the mainland they will often dig in the sand and scoop out water. Water-borne diseases are endemic.

The project that we, together,  have raised funds for is implementing ceramic filters for a new rainwater catchment system and storage tank. The intervention also includes hygiene and basic sanitation components where families will be trained proper hygiene practices. Like several other projects in the Peer Water Exchange, the solution is cheap, simple, and highly effective.

This project will be completed right around my departure date on December 22. This project will benefit approximately 1,000 students in 5 schools, and 400 family members in 55 homes. What an incredible way to start my journey knowing that over 1,000 people will have safe drinking water for life!

To find out more about this project, please click here.