Dear HOPE Friends,
Today, October 15th is Global Handwashing Day. In an effort to provide clean water to underserved communities, and subsequently lower the incidence of diarrhea and other waterborne diseases, HOPE has partnered with Proctor & Gamble for the past decade to distribute PuR water sachets to rural and remote areas across Pakistan. In fact, HOPE is the only NGO authorized to distribute PuR sachets in Pakistan. To date we have distributed almost 4 million sachets of PuR to communities which routinely face challenges in obtaining clean water. As a result, over the years, repeat hospitalizations and infections have been prevented and expenditure on medical care has been reduced. As the pictures illustrate, a PuR sachet transforms contaminated water into potable water through the processes of coagulation, flocculation, and disinfection. In simple terms, a PuR sachet is emptied into a vessel containing 10 liters of water. After stirring, the ingredients in a PuR sachet cause the contaminants in the water to clump together at the bottom of the vessel, thus making them easier to remove. Lastly, the water is filtered through a cloth to remove the contaminants so that it is ready to consume. Sachets of PuR, along with a cooler and straining cloth are distributed to our beneficiaries so that they are able to serve their family the cleanest drinking water and thus reduce waterborne illnesses. We look forward to continuing this venture with Proctor & Gamble for many years to come. Best regards, Ambereen Siddiqui Director - HOPE North America & Europe
