INDONESIA – It might seem like such a simple thing to those of us here in the States: making sure people have access to pure, fresh drinking water. But in the mountainous region of Indonesia, it has not been simple at all. Generation after generation watched its plentiful rainfall go to waste. They were an example of a village that needed a rainwater harvesting system in Indonesia.
For young Idealis in the small village of Botombawao, that meant carrying on as his forefathers had done: fetching water from unclean sources like the river.
“My family directly bathes in the river, then we collect water from the river using cans that we bring home,” said Idealis’s mother, Tinaria. “We use this water for both drinking and for our livestock.”
That meant long treks for water to drink, bathe, and wash their clothes in—even when it was murky and unpleasant. But they had no other option. And for a young boy like Idealis, it’s all he has ever known. Until now.
The Impact of a Rainwater Harvesting System in Indonesia
Your generosity helped make it possible for Operation Blessing to offer 34 families and one church in Botombawao the wonder of a rainwater harvesting system. This simple yet innovative method captures, stores, filters, and treats rainwater, offering a beacon of hope for communities like the one where Idealis lives. This lets Idealis and other kids in the village spend their time studying and playing, instead of searching for unsafe water.
The community celebrated their new system with a special ribbon cutting ceremony. Tinaria said, “Now that we’ve received help, my family and I are extremely grateful.” Thanks to special partners like you, Operation Blessing can make a huge difference for so many families in need.
