That number is expected to grow within the coming years, as many of these people live in areas vulnerable to climate change. This year, the need for change is greater than ever – and that change could start with you. As we prepare for our second annual Move 4 Water event, we’re offering our supporters the chance to change a life next year. With just $1.50, you can give one person safe drinking water for a whole year.

Here’s what safe water for a year can mean for that person.

Safety from waterborne diseases. Every year, 1.4 million people die because of preventable waterborne diseases. Communities that rely on unsafe water are often exposed to waterborne diseases like cholera and dysentery, which can spread rapidly through areas without the resources to prevent them. H2O4ALL’s water systems provide communities with a safer, sustainable alternative to their local water sources, protecting families from waterborne disease.

Protection from other communicable diseases. Handwashing is vital for the health and safety of any community. Research shows that promoting handwashing in a community reduces about 30% of diarrhea-related illnesses and about 20% of respiratory infections. However, three in ten people worldwide don’t have facilities for washing their hands with soap and water at home. Furthermore, only half of the world’s health centres have handwashing facilities with soap and water.  Promoting safe water access can make a world of difference when it comes to preventing the spread of disease. By building sustainable safe water systems and working with our partner communities to educate families about water safety and hygiene, we help communities build resilience against contagious disease.

A better life for their children. Nobody is more vulnerable to the struggles of water scarcity than children. For millions of families in communities without running water, the water they use every day puts their children at risk of malnourishment, skin problems, and even fatal illness. Diarrhoeal diseases – primarily caused by contaminated water – are the second leading cause of infant mortality worldwide.

The risk of disease also plays a role in keeping children out of school. Many young people in water-stressed communities fall behind in school because of repeated bouts of waterborne disease. In addition, the lack of running water in many schools leaves children vulnerable to contagious diseases. By working with schools to provide safe water access, we can ensure that young people in our client communities have a chance to grow and learn in safety. By giving a child safe water for a year, you can give them the chance to grow, thrive, and reach for a brighter future.

If a small donation can save a life, how many lives can we save if we all work together? On June 7th, H2O4ALL supporters across Canada will be coming together for our second annual Move 4 Water event. Last year, we called on friends and supporters across Canada to make moves for safe water by creating their own fundraisers and mobilizing their communities. We ‘re looking forward to another great summer of making moves for global safe water access.

Join us on June 7th to help change the world for the better. You can find a fundraiser near you at our Move 4 Water page.