grandchildren. Two of them go to school (on time and in clean uniforms). The other one just bought a sewing machine so she can make and sell her own clothing
She told us that each day she’d ask herself, “How should I use this water today? Should I water my garden so we can grow food? Should I wash my children’s uniforms? Should I use it to cook a meal? Should we drink this water?”
With two children, one husband and only 10 gallons of water, Helen had to make choices. And she always put herself last.
But all of that changed when her community got clean water.
“I am happy now,” Helen beamed. “I have time to eat, my children can go to school. And I can even work in my garden, take a shower and then come back for more water if I want! I am bathing so well.”
“Now, I am beautiful,” Helen said.
That’s the part that blew us away.
We commonly hear people talk about improved health, time saved, education opportunities, dignity, pride, joy…
But no one had ever said beauty.
This year, we sent a team back to Northern Uganda to visit Helen and see how clean water has continued to change her life over time.
The best part is that it’s not just her story anymore.
Today, she lives with three of her grandchildren. Two of them go to school (on time and in clean uniforms). The other one just bought a sewing machine so she can make and sell her own clothing.
Helen’s son lives next door with his wife. They’re currently saving up money so they can open a restaurant.
Down the road, her neighbors have bigger farms and more livestock. Women are selling baked goods and working in shops. Kids are moving on to technical school.
Everyone
