Clean Water

Through the generosity of donors like you, Mr. Ramos’* school in the southern Philippines received a large BioSand Water Filter, handwashing stations, and hygiene supplies. He wrote a letter** in response:

Principal Ramos tries out the new handwashing stations built at his school.

Dear Friends,

Water is very essential in our daily existence. It is one of the sources in all life forms that exist on this planet. Undeniably, without water, life would be impossible to exist. Thus, everyone needs safe water, clean and safe water.

The presence of the [large] BioSand Water Filter gives delight not only to the school,* its teachers, parents, and learners but to the whole community.* As a school head, I see this project is so beneficial, such a great blessing. I cannot believe that the thing that I have been dreaming of—having this kind of water facility in our school—would come into reality and I must be forever grateful to Samaritan Purse for this project and to the individuals who were instrumental in the realization of this project.

The BioSand water filtration facility is a project that answered the needs of the school and the community. It assured us that the water we are drinking is enough to save lives from any potential health-causing diseases that we can get from the water. Moreover, I see it as a strong support to the schools’ program.

This project was not only for the school but for the whole community. I have felt the excitement of the people around me. They have been asking a lot of questions about the project. When the orientation happened, and they learned about its health benefits, the villagers were so happy about it.

Overall, what I see more about this and what made me so thankful for this project is that it strengthened the relationship between the school and the community. They [the community] have shown a lot of concerns as to how to take good care of the project [water filter] to make it last a lifetime. The community is committed to supporting the school in its proper usage and even in the maintenance aspect.

Life-saving BioSand Filters transform dirty water into safe water in seconds. As a result, students can be healthy, learn effectively, and overcome one of their biggest challenges.

This is not only beneficial to our human body but also increases that sense of mutual responsibility. And to me, that is a nice manifestation that this project would prosper and continue to produce clean water because I believe in your claim that “everyone deserves clean water for life.” Indeed, everyone needs it, and it is a must for life to exist.

So, on behalf of the teachers, parents, and learners of our school, and the whole community, our heartfelt thanks for answering our prayers. You were indeed God’s instrument in making someone else’s dreams realized. God bless your endeavor, and we pray that you will have more communities to be catered to.

Thank you very much, and Godspeed.

Forever grateful,

Gabriel Ramos
School Head

*Names of individuals, schools, and communities have been changed or removed for security

**Some sections have been edited or shortened for clarity.