Water Scarcity Solutions
Organizations worldwide have been studying and implementing water scarcity solutions. At GFA World, we have found that drilling fresh water wells and providing BioSand water filters makes a profound difference in the lives, health and wellbeing of families—and their larger communities.
Delivering water through Jesus Wells
Some villages in South Asia wait over six months for rain. Nearly all the rivers dry up, so people travel to other villages, which can be 4 miles away or more, to gather water. Villagers have tried to store water during the rainy season, but it often becomes contaminated, leading to disease. And, during monsoon season, rivers can become dirty and smell foul.
GFA drills Jesus Wells, which draw fresh water from up to 600 feet deep year-round, even in the driest summers. We use local contractors to drill multiple wells, so we can build a well for, on average, $1,400—much less than many other organizations. The local congregation maintains the well, from lubricating the hand pump to replacing small parts. If an earthquake or flood damages the well, GFA pays for repairs.
Each Jesus Well provides easily accessible, fresh and clean water—which translates to greater health, productivity and joy—for up to 300 people for around 20 years.
Filters for clean water
Just $30 pays for a BioSand Water Filter, which uses a concrete box, sand and a diffuser plate to strip water of disease-causing pathogens. A family can use their filter for up to 20 years. Each filter creates 98% pure water for drinking and cooking.
To fully solve the global water crisis, we need to address multiple factors, including supply, usage, infrastructure and management. GFA is already providing free and easy access to safe drinking water. Other organizations, like UNICEF, are installing solar and wind-powered pumping systems; collecting and treating rainwater and water from ponds, and storing it underground for future use; and working with communities and governments for equitable water management.
Of course, no organization can solve the problem alone. In addition to donating toward our Jesus Wells and BioSand filters, here are other ways you can impact the crisis.
- Be an advocate: Support policy changes and political commitments to promote water scarcity solutions. Governments can integrate UNICEF’s WASH priorities into their policies or integrate such plans as the National Adaptation Plans and Nationally Determined Contributions.
- Spread the word: God’s love isn’t the only message we’re spreading. Young people are the future of this world, so teaching them about water scarcity is essential. School clubs, community talks and other events can raise awareness and let people know how they can be a part of the solution.
- Donate: Right this very minute, you can make a difference in the life of a child, family or entire village by donating to our clean water efforts.