Is a Clean Water Initiative Effective for Poverty Reduction?
Yes. Since 1979, GFA World has been serving in South Asia and has witnessed firsthand how a clean water initiative has had a life-changing impact on numerous communities.
In 2019, over 12,243 BioSand water filters were given to families in Asia through GFA and their partners. GFA has drilled a cumulative total of more than 30,000 wells throughout Asia in areas of need.
How do these clean water initiatives impact poverty among families and communities?
The World Health Organization says improved water supply, sanitation and better management of resources “can boost countries’ economic growth and can contribute greatly to poverty reduction.”1
Health improves
Clean water provides health benefits to entire communities. Not only does it hydrate, but it also prevents waterborne disease that resides in contaminated water. With fresh clean water, a community is protected from diarrhea, cholera, dysentery and other waterborne diseases.
Income and education potential
Often the burden of water collection, which is sometimes miles away and takes hours to get, falls on the women and children. When water is accessible nearby, those women are then free to spend that time working and caring for their children and the children have time to attend school, which is a major key to breaking the cycle of poverty.
Dignity
There is dignity that comes from having access to toilets and hand washing facilities.
GFA offers two clean water initiatives, and they have both been successful for decades. Jesus Wells are offered in communities in Asia and Africa that need access to clean water. BioSand water filters are provided to families and neighbors who have access to water that is contaminated. These filters purify the water, allowing it to be safe for drinking and cooking.
Over generations, GFA has witnessed the power of water initiatives in alleviating poverty and increasing the economic potential in a community. This comes through improved water supply, sanitation, and better management of resources.
Will you join us in giving clean water to communities in Asia and Africa?
1 “Drinking-water. Key facts.”. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/drinking-water, June 14, 2019.