Challenge
96% of water in the Gaza strip is undrinkable. Freshwater availability per capita per year is one of the lowest in the world, as 97% of the population depends on water to be delivered by water tankers. Water is a vital, albeit extremely scarce resource in the territory. The lack of drinkable, safe water is a major limitation to the growth of the economy, and already threatens the livelihood of the growing population. The demand for water is accelerating at a high rate and severe water shortages are rampant, the situation only worsening.
Water dehydration can also have serious side-effects on health and longevity:
- Severely decreased urine output or no urine output - the urine, if any, produced is concentrated and a deep yellow or amber color
- Dizziness or lightheadedness that does not allow the person to stand or walk normally
- Blood pressure drops when the person tries to stand after lying down (low blood pressure or orthostatic hypotension)
- Rapid heart rate
- Fever
- Poor skin elasticity (skin slowly sinks back to its normal position when pinched)
- Lethargy, confusion, or coma
- Seizure
- Shock
Solution
Our Gaza Water Tanker is a refillable vessel that delivers clean water. Generally, tankers are targeted in areas where water supplies are restricted or contaminated, such as schools, orphanages, hospitals and places of worship (also where they can be filled efficiently and regularly). By providing clean water, we help terminate waterborne diseases such as cholera and other serious illnesses such as Guinea worm disease, typhoid, and dysentery. Additionally, clean water does a great deal to boost agricultural output and promote educated and healthy societies.
Distribution
1 high-quality water tanker was installed in a remote area of Gaza, serving 10,000 school-children in the surrounding region.
Long-Term Impact
These water tankers are durable and long-lasting, expected to serve Gazans for years to come. Tankers are located in centralized locations (albeit some in more remote areas) making them easily accessed for consistent refilling and maintenance, making sure that those we have raised the money to serve are getting what we promised them, clean water today and for years into the future. Having clean water, especially at places like a school promotes overall health, better immunity, and mental clarity, all essential components of a successful education, necessary for empowering the ever-important Gazan youth.