Restoring Clean Water to Typhoon-Hit Communities
Where do your emergency donations go? In the wake of Typhoon Haiyan, today's blog looks at what steps our teams on the ground take to provide the right support to the people most affected by this kinds of large-scale disasters. Leoniza explains how the assessment team delivered just the right solution for this community, keeping its children safe from illness and disease.
By Leoniza O. Morales, World Vision Philippines Creative Services Officer
John Riz and his 393 fellow students at this school in Tabogon, Northern Cebu, now have more time to study and play. They no longer carry gallons of water to school.
“I am really grateful. I will not experience anymore the hardships of fetching water in a far village,” shares the 13-year-old sixth grade student.
When Typhoon Haiyan (known locally as Typhoon Yolanda) wrecked central Philippines on November 8th, communities like Somosa had difficulties getting clean and potable water. They were forced to resort to open wells not safe for drinking as power supply was interrupted for a month.
“We were worried where to get drinking water for the children when the classes resumed and how to clean the classrooms of the mud and debris left by the typhoon,” recounts teacher Armae Curiba. “We asked the students to bring water every day that they would need while in school. It was very difficult as they live far from the school and the deep well is located in another village.”
Most of the children arrived late in school and were tired as they had to walk 2-3 kilometers to get water before the school day began.
Help where it’s most needed
When World Vision conducted their assessment of the area, the residents identified food, water and shelter as their 3 most important needs. Based on this, we provided a generator that ensured a steady supply of safe and clean water reached the school and the households.
“Access to clean water is an immediate priority to ensure good health of the community especially the children,” Cebu Zonal Manager Ajab Macapagat says of the project that forms part of World Vision’s Water, Sanitation and Health (WASH) interventions.
Safe drinking water means the children are protected from water-borne diseases, they can properly wash their hands and readily available water means toilets and the entire school surroundings remain clean.
In some areas, construction or repair of the water system is needed. “We do not only provide materials, we want the community to be part of the project and to own it,” WASH Coordinator Ronnie Santos explains. “We mobilize and encourage them to contribute what they have, like diesel for the generator. The community has the responsibility for proper care and maintenance of the unit.”
Although the power supply has now been restored, rolling blackouts across the local areas are imposed by the electric cooperative. Some days the generator is being used for 12 hours.
It's now almost 3 months since Typhoon Haiyan hit the Philippines. Next week our CEO, Justin Byworth, travels to see the progress that is being made thanks to your generosity, so be sure to Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter for updates.
