100% of donations made to our COVID-19 Relief Fund will help our local partners deliver lifesaving resources to vulnerable communities.
Without strong healthcare systems to rely on, prevention is absolutely critical to protecting vulnerable people in developing countries from COVID-19. Our local partners are urgently expanding their work to bring vital resources to even more communities.
Globally, 40% of people lack access to a handwashing facility. It’s worse in Sub-Saharan Africa, where 75% of people lack access.
Good hygiene practices, especially effective handwashing, are key to preventing the spread of the coronavirus.
Educational posters, radio ads, and songs by local musicians are raising awareness about COVID-19 in rural areas.
As the coronavirus spreads around the globe, the communities we serve are at an unprecedented risk. See how our partners are adapting and scaling to protect the most vulnerable from COVID-19 and learn how you can help in this video message from charity: water founder and CEO Scott Harrison.
Our local partners are experts in disease prevention. As WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) providers, their work is always focused on preventing waterborne diseases, like diarrhea and typhoid fever, not only with access to clean water but also with training on healthy sanitation and hygiene practices. Now, their expertise is exactly what’s needed to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
This is what your support looks like—right now, in the middle of a pandemic. Communities in the most remote regions of Ethiopia are practicing social distancing at a water point. They have access to handwashing stations. They’re able to collect the clean and safe water they need to protect their families and stay healthy. None of this is possible without supporters like you.
The Water Trust, one of our local partners in Uganda, is collaborating with local musicians to produce songs about the coronavirus. They shared, “Our focus is on low-literacy populations outside the urban core. The messages themselves will be in local languages, and framed in a positive, solution-oriented tone with a focus on small, doable actions that give the audience a sense of control of their future despite the difficult circumstance.”
Mechanics at the Relief Society of Tigray (REST), our local partner in Tigray, Ethiopia, have now been classified as “frontline workers.” In addition to their regular work, the government has requested their support to help repair non-charity: water projects in high-demand areas. These incredible mechanics aren’t just providing repairs; they’re also training local communities on social distancing and proper handwashing—a service that requires great sacrifice. They are fully isolated from their families in an effort to continue this important work while keeping everyone as safe and healthy as possible.
Can handwashing stations and songs about disease prevention really save lives? Absolutely. This essential work is keeping families safe from COVID-19 in places where healthcare systems are not equipped to support those who fall ill. Your gift makes it happen. To learn more about our commitment to protecting the world’s most vulnerable communities, read our official response to COVID-19.
Long before the coronavirus became a global health crisis, members of The Spring, our monthly giving community, were already part of the solution. And they’ll continue this work long after the pandemic ends. The Spring is bringing clean water, sanitation, and hygiene to people in need every single month. Join them for as little as $5 per month.
Learn More