PERU – Searching for water in the dusty highlands of Llinquipata, Peru, involved a one-hour round trip on uneven terrain to collect contaminated water from the river or from shallow hand-dug wells. The absence of proper sanitation left residents dependent on makeshift latrines more than a half mile away from their homes. For many, like 70-year-old Paulino, life hasn’t been easy, and the lack of clean water and proper sanitation only added to their daily struggle. A source of safe clean water in Peru was nothing more than a distant dream for Paulino.
Paulino’s beloved wife passed away years ago, and his children have all grown and moved away. He continues working hard to provide for himself and take care of his household duties, including collecting water, but it has become more difficult as he ages.
Paulino shared with us, “We cannot live without water, and as I grow older, the fatigue sets in more, making the journey to the river or searching for water in the old hand-dug wells exhausting. It is hard to live in such conditions. We struggle a lot.”
The Love of GOD with the Gift of Clean Water in Peru
But amid Paulino’s struggles, generous friends like you brought the love of God in a tangible way: life-changing access to clean water in Peru and hygiene stations.
Operation Blessing drilled a well and equipped it with a solar-powered water pump and a 2,500-gallon elevated storage tank. From there, the water is cleaned and filtered, then flows directly to each household. A hygiene station, including a biodigester toilet, shower, and sink for handwashing, was provided for every family, and the community learned proper handwashing and hygiene.
Your kindness brought hope to a struggling community and made a lasting impression on people like Paulino for the kingdom of God. Your support has lightened the burden for him and many others in his community. Access to clean water and sanitation is a gift that Llinquipata will never forget, and it’s all thanks to you.
Paulino smiled warmly and expressed his gratitude. “I am thrilled! I never thought something like this would happen here. Before, getting water was painful, but now we no longer need to walk to the river or hand-dug wells for water. Clean water in Peru now comes to our houses! Thank you very much, friends.”
“I am thrilled! I never thought something like this would happen here. Before, getting water was painful, but now we no longer need to walk to the river or hand-dug wells for water. Clean water in Peru now comes to our houses! Thank you very much, friends.”
-Paulino
