Health Springs From Clean Water

Thirteen-year-old Manita* is one of many kids in Ambote who has witnessed the impact of clean water firsthand.

“It’s easier now than it was before,” Manita shared. “The taps are much closer.”

Three years ago, life was very different for this community in southeastern Nepal. Before they had access to clean water, families had to rely on streams and springs located high in the mountains. Not only did it require difficult climbing, but the unprotected water sources were also often the cause of illness for nearly everyone in the community.

In 2010, the local health clinic in Ambote was seeing more than 700 patients per month. But not anymore.

Today, that number is down to 60-65, thanks to you. Money raised through Red Nose Day is helping to fund charity: water and their local partner, Nepal Water for Health (NEWAH).

In 2013, NEWAH began constructing a massive, gravity-fed, piped water system in Ambote that would capture the natural spring water high up on the mountain and deliver it down to tap stands located throughout the community.

Instead of having to climb and search for water, families now have access right next to their homes. And because it’s a protected source, the health of the community has transformed.

“Before the water project came in, we had more sick people in the village” Manita shared. “Now we know the importance of using toilets, keeping clean, and drinking clean water.”

The resident doctor, Ram, who has been in Ambote for 18 years, went from treating over 2,220 cases of diarrhea in 2010 to fewer than 200 today.

For kids like Manita, restored health has meant the freedom to go to school. To study math, science, english, and Nepali with other 9th graders. To dream a little bigger.

Today, Manita is working to make sure that her community stays healthy for years to come. “I want to be a scientist,” Manita boasted. “I want to make medicines to cure the ill.”

* Name has been changed to protect privacy.

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