As the world already knows, Haiti was struck by a severe earthquake on January 12th, 2010. This tragedy will have lasting impacts on families, livelihoods and infrastructure for years to come. Since 2006, Ryan’s Well has supported the implementation of 22 drilled wells in the Artibonite Valley with partners at Rotary Water for Life and the Albert Schweitzer Hospital based in Deschappelles. With partner Haiti Mission, a drilled well at Kay en Rond in the Jeremie region was constructed in 2008 and, currently, a spring protection project will provide safe water for the population of Ravine Sable.
We are thankful that all of our partners and their staff are now doing relatively well and continuing their incredible efforts to support the people of Jeremie and the Artibonite Valley. All of the wells constructed prior to the earthquake are functioning and providing much needed safe water for thousands of people in these rural areas. The Artibonite Valley and Jeremie region have both experienced a growth in population with many people and families transitioning to more rural areas with extended family to rebuild their lives. The need for sustainable access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene education and long term support is now even greater.
As our Phase 3 project in the Artibonite Valley nears completion with the final 6 wells in Ponte Sondé, we are planning ahead for Phase 4 to provide 100 latrines for Ponte Sondé this fall. It is vital that access to basic sanitation is available for the expanding population to ensure safe water is preserved and health benefits are maximized. A gift of $500 will provide a latrine - giving a latrine is giving access to privacy, dignity and good hygiene, especially for women and girls.
Activities in Ravine Sable in the Jeremie region have also progressed to rehabilitate protected springs that provide safe water by a pipe network to water taps providing for over 2,000 village residents. With the projects already underway, we are closing in on our fundraising goal. Your support will help us make the final stride forward for Ravine Sable.
Ryan’s Well is committed to working with our local partners at Rotary Water for Life, Albert Schweitzer Hospital and Haiti Mission for the long term. With your help, we will continue to support long term programs providing sustainable access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene education. Step by step, we can improve lives by reducing water-related disease, increasing access to education, encouraging new skills and community management.
Together we can help the people of Haiti take this first vital step with access to safe water and sanitation.