Ending The Water Crisis: A Global Mission

Written By: Kristen Edwards | Division 1 LTG

As we move into summer, the Georgia District is excited to introduce this month’s partner: The Thirst Project! As the world’s largest youth water organization, the Thirst Project is dedicated to ending the global water crisis. For over ten years, they have partnered with Key Club International to bring clean drinking water to those in need.

Imagine walking 3.75 miles every day for 6-8 hours while carrying 44 pounds to simply collect water. For millions of people across the world, this is a daily reality. Today, 695 million people in the world do not have access to safe drinking water. This leads to serious health issues and the spread of diseases. Every 21 seconds, a youth death could be prevented with access to clean water. The water crisis is not just a health issue, but an economic one. With no reliable water source, communities cannot develop sustainable agricultural production, compromising food security. Women and children are often responsible for walking those 3.75 miles to collect water. This means children miss out on educational opportunities, and women are unable to pursue jobs and become financial providers. 

The global water crisis is a huge issue, and that is why the Thirst Project is dedicated to creating change. One of the organization's primary initiatives is building hand pump borehole wells across the world. These wells can last up to forty years, providing entire communities with safe water. Their simple yet effective design does not require expensive or difficult-to-aquire parts, making them practical and impactful. The Thirst Project is currently working in El Salvador, Kenya, and the Kingdom of Eswatini. The second smallest country in Africa, with a population of 1.16 million people, the Thirst Project has committed to bringing the entire nation of Eswatini safe, clean water. So far, the Thirst Project has completed 3,560 projects and served 655,927 people across 13 countries, and their impact grows every day.

How can you get involved? One of the best ways to help the Thirst Project is through fundraising. Wells cost money, and every single cent helps. One hundred percent of donations go towards building water projects in the communities that they serve. A simple way to get started is through setting up your own fundraising page on their website. It takes just a few minutes to set up and start changing the world. Another way to get connected is by joining the Thirst Project student network. There you can learn more and chat with other Thirst Project student leaders. You can also help by spreading the word. Do not stay silent, tell people about the water crisis! Raise awareness, and get more people involved. 

The water crisis is impacting millions every day, and we are lucky enough to have the opportunity to help end it. Donating just $25 to the Thirst Project provides one person with clean water for life. Georgia Key Club, how many lives can we impact through this month, and beyond? Let us lead with selflessness and dedication as we support the incredible work of the Thirst Project.