Rainwater harvesting system in 3 rural communities

Dear Esteemed Supporters,

I trust this message finds you well.

As we embark on a new year, I extend my warmest wishes for a prosperous and joyous 2024.

Reflecting upon the past year, 2023 was undeniably exceptional for Pro Eco Azuero, marked by triumphant moments and significant achievements. Through the Azuero spider monkey school initiative, a collaboration with Ponterra, we successfully imparted environmental education to over 2000 children in Azuero, nurturing them into future environmental leaders. Additionally, we proudly organized two entirely FREE summer camps for children across various communities in Azuero. Our commitment to fostering environmental awareness continued with the reinforcement of our Pro Eco Pelaos program among the children of the Pedasí community. With the funding of Varela Hermanos, we were able to implement the Azuero spider monkey school initiative in Pese, a school of 500 children in the province of Herrera for the first time. In tandem, we achieved the planting of 96,800 native and fruit trees, actively contributing to the restoration of the Azuero spider monkey habitat.

I extend my deepest gratitude for your invaluable contributions and unwavering belief in the vision of a better Azuero. The commencement of this new year brings with it renewed determination and a slate of ambitious projects. Thanks to your support, we have undertaken the implementation of rainwater harvesting systems in three communities highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change. These communities often grapple with water scarcity during the dry season, forcing them to contemplate the unfortunate need to cancel classes. Despite facing adversities such as school closures due to protests in Panama and the destruction of two systems by heavy rain and wind, we persevered. The tanks have been replenished during the rainy season and are poised to serve as vital reservoirs in the upcoming dry season. We are grateful for the resilient spirit of the community members who have actively participated in the process, reinforcing our collective commitment to this cause.

The subsequent phase of our endeavor involves establishing organic school gardens in each educational institution, providing children with an opportunity to cultivate, produce, and harvest their own food.

We are immensely thankful for your steadfast support thus far and take this opportunity to appeal to your generosity once again. Your assistance in sharing our project and, if possible, contributing financially will play a pivotal role in realizing our fundraising goal and bringing our project to a successful conclusion.

In anticipation of your continued generosity and commitment, I extend my sincere thanks.

Warm regards,