This project was constructed at a health clinic. Safe health practices require safe water within reach. When nurses and doctors spend time walking for water or boiling that water to guarantee it’s safe, they lose precious minutes helping their patients.

This charity: water clinic project cost more than the average water project because it includes not only a clean water source, but toilets for doctors, nurses and patients, too. Before, there wasn't a clean, private place to use the bathroom, which is essential for preventing waterborne disease. Your money has provided patients and health care providers here with improved sanitation (toilets), which can reduce diarrheal deaths by as much as 32%. You've also helped build handwashing stations here so everyone can practice safe hygiene.

Working in the Bandundu region of the DRC presented two challenges. The team at ACF has worked hard through supply chain issues and conflict to complete this project.

In the Spring 2012, a conflict between the Congolese army and other armed forces in eastern DRC forced a migration of refugees into South Kivu, where additional projects were constructed. With the number of internally displaced people quickly increasing, natural resources were at an all time low.

The delivery of pipes and accessories, which includes finding the correct materials, shipping and navigating customs, took extra time. In addition, DRC is a large country -- transporting materials across demanding terrain made delivery complex.

Our partner Action Against Hunger was able to continue their activity on the ground and have since reported a 30% increase in the number of people with access to clean water! In total, 13 schools and 5 health clinics were able to gain access to a safe water source, and many water committees were created who have contact with local authorities. This significantly improves hygiene and sanitation for the communities.