"Water, Water, ..."

Where there is water, there is life. But more than that, there is opportunity - for children and families to learn to grow up, be healthy, and to lift themselves out of poverty.

The uplands of Mindanao in the Philippines are home to the indigenous Higaonan tribe. In their culture, women are responsible for preparing food, caring for children, caring for livestock and collecting water. And they are expected to help earn income for their families.

Most activities the women do to earn money, like growing extra crops, require extra water. But water sources are far away and require long travel taking time away from other responsibilities. A closer water source would make life easier, but women often don't have a voice in such decisions.

With local partner Balay Mindanaw Foundation, Inc., Lutheran World Relief is increasing the number of households that have access to clean water. To do this, LWR is working with both men and women, giving training on water conservation, installing water systems, and ensuring that women have a voice in local decisions.

A water project participant, Lolita Lunes says, "Now the water is closer, I can spend more time on the farm. This helps my family produce quality crops and earn extra income. Having a close water source has dramatically changed my life, as well as the lives of all the women in our community."

As one Christian has said, "Just give me the water. We will provide the work. God will provide the growth."

Pastor Robert J. Newpher