Ten-year-old Jonas has grown up knowing the daily struggle of finding clean water. His town in Haiti lacks public services and basic infrastructure. The community is extremely vulnerable, exposed to inadequate hygiene and sanitation. These conditions cause a multitude of health risks that exacerbate the suffering of those already living in poverty.
One of the community's greatest needs has always been accessing clean water. The lack of proper hygiene and running water has exposed the community to many health problems, including waterborne diseases, sickness and dehydration.
Jonas is registered at the Child Sponsorship Program at the local Compassion center. As the staff of the center witnessed the impact of the lack of clean water, both in the lives of the children and the entire community, they sought funding for a water treatment center.
After the request was received by Compassion, the approval came through quickly, promising wide-scale change in the community. The new water treatment facility had immediate effects throughout the region. Finally, families had access to good quality water at a very affordable price, far cheaper than bottled water, which many had been previously forced to rely on.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the presence of this water distribution station has been a blessing throughout the community. Many give glory to God for his timing; hundreds of families have been able to access safe drinking water while adhering to national health guidelines for COVID-19.
Jonas is finally free from the daily burden of wondering whether his family would have enough water that day. "Before, we had to walk a long way before we could find some water to drink or wash," says Jonas. "Now, it's a lot easier!"