The 400 residents of the marginalized Naso community of Sieykin drink untreated surface water from streams and rivers in the surrounding area. In addition, neither the community school nor the health post have access to running water or hand-washing stations. These unsanitary conditions cause the people of Sieykin to suffer from diarrhea and other gastrointestinal health issues. Further exacerbating this problem, few community members have access to even the most basic health education.
The Panama Project will improve water quality by installing a potable water system and upgrading the existing water distribution system. We will also promote community understanding of disease transmission through a health and hygiene campaign
The project will significantly reduce the incidence of waterborne diseases in 400 children and adults. By increasing health awareness and reducing funds spent on treating disease, we hope to help end the cycle of poverty that afflicts the region.