Only 56% of Nicaraguans use safely managed drinking water services (https://data.unicef.org/country/nic/). Consuming water that is contaminated by chemicals and faecal matter can cause waterborne diseases which would be preventable with proper water purification. By sponsoring clean, safe drinking water for the 246 families in Melchorita and Espavel, you can improve the entire community's health, enabling families to live healthier, more productive lives.
Melchorita and Espavel make up a community of 861 people comprising 246 households. The community has a water tank that can hold up to 50,000 gallons of clean water at full capacity, but they need a way to purify it to ensure that it's safe to drink. Without properly treated water, diarrhea is a daily reality that prevents people from keeping nutrients in their bodies. Chronic illness makes it very difficult to go to school to learn or work to support your family.
Our trained technician will teach the community how to install & maintain a CTI-8 water chlorinator system which will eliminate the bacteria from the water being stored in the tank. This is a simple, locally-appropriate, and effective solution to purifying drinking water. Having a consistent supply of chlorinated water immediately and significantly reduces the incidence of acute diarrheal disease so families can lead healthier, more productive lives.
The CTI-8 system is durable enough to last 5 years or more. Since it's made of PVC pipe and valves, any damaged parts are easily replaced. At just $28 USD per month for chlorine tablets for one whole community, the ongoing maintenance is affordable. Our staff provide extensive training and follow-up to ensure proper maintenance, and educate residents about hand washing and sanitation practices. Communities with a CTI-8 demonstrate higher levels of education and community sensitivity about water.