Life by the river in Laos provides some benefits. There is an abundance of water available and the river is a source of income. The villagers of Vern Village live next to the Mekong River and are primarily fishermen, getting most of their protein and income generation from this mighty river. They also use the river water for their basic needs, such as washing and cleaning, as well as water for cooking and drinking
But river water is not clean or safe for drinking. Last year, several very needy families from Vern Village participated in the TerraCare program and received subsidized TerraClear water filters as well as 6 lessons about WASH (water and sanitation), including about the need for safe drinking water, handwashing, and the dangers of open defecation.
This year, we were able to visit these families one year on, to get feedback about the program. Did they still use the filters? Where they happy with them? Did they remember the lessons? YES, YES, and YES!!!!!
The families reported that their health had improved with less illness and diarrhea, less missed days of work and school, better overall health, and real gratefulness for the generous support of people who don’t even know them who made it possible to have clean water in their own homes. Drinking safe water for the past year MADE A DIFFERENCE! Thank you!
