Merrie and I want to thank you for standing with Water is Life this year to bring safe drinking water to an additional 12,000 Ethiopians. Normally this number would represent about 24 new wells being built but the number grew due to five new solar systems that were installed in strategically placed high-yielding wells. Using the power of sunlight and gravity has enabled us to expand our reach to include thousands more people served from one well.
The women are encouraged to use their extra time to participate in a Sustainable Living Team (SLTs) that support learning, self-leadership, and income generating opportunities. This powerful combination of clean water and the love and support they enjoy in SLTs empowers women and girls for effective and enduring transformation, both physically and spiritually.
Our goal for 2019 is to do at least five more solar systems serving more than 26,000 people. We will continue to construct individual wells with hand pumps where solar applications are not cost effective. SLTs will be introduced to each of these communities.
We invite you to consider an end of year donation so we can start on these projects right away. Your gift is a gift not only of water and life, but of time, particularly for women and girls. Water is priceless, but it is not free! Your gift covers what Ethiopian villages can’t afford. It alleviates the burden that women and girls carry daily and creates a great return that lasts for decades.
We are very grateful for your participation with Water is Life in this work of mutual love. We are abounding in thanksgiving each day for you and the work that God is doing in our lives together.
With Christmas blessings of Love and Hope,
David Harding