Tongati, Rwanda, is nestled amidst picturesque mountains and flowing water, but the community living there struggled with a crucial issue: the water that surrounded them was infested with water-born illnesses. Athalie, a mother of three, struggled to provide clean water for her family, but her life was completely transformed when Food for the Hungry (FH) partnered with her community to build a pipeline to provide clean water. This story is an example of how meaningful gifts through FH bring hope and transform lives.
A Cycle of Deepening Poverty
For years, Athalie and her children trekked long distances to fetch water from contaminated sources. This water usually contained aquatic worms that led to frequent illnesses that disrupted daily life. “Life was difficult. My children and I would wake up at 5:00 a.m. and walk 2km to collect water, affecting their schooling and our overall well-being. The water we collected made us sick and we’d often have to travel to the Health Center.”
Deeper ramifications were impacting Tongati other than the daily chore of getting water. With the next generation’s education being continuously disrupted, Athalie’s family and others like hers were trapped in a cycle of deepening poverty.
A Chance for Change
Thanks to local partnerships Food for the Hungry has with community leaders, a water pipeline was installed in Tongati. This brought clean water within a three-minute walk from Athalie’s home.
Her family’s and her neighbors’ way of life was immediately transformed. They could now bathe and wash clothes, drink the water without becoming sick, and foster better hygiene practices, all while their children could be diligent in their school studies.
With FH’s presence in her community, Athalie also took advantage of classes on financial literacy. After learning how to manage her income effectively, she watched her savings multiply. Athalie can now afford essential household needs like food and clothing and even invest in health insurance.
The Gift of Clean Water
Athalie expressed heartfelt gratitude for FH partnering with her community, which highlights the transformative impact of FH supporters. Water pipelines like the one in Tongati are made possible through generous donations to meaningful gifts found in the FH Gift Catalog. With the gift of clean water, together we can help reshape the lives of God’s people and help them build brighter, flourishing futures.
