What significance would a single drop of water hold for you?
How often do we stop and reflect on the significance of a drop of water in our daily lives? For those who have easy access to this essential resource, it is not a common reflection. But beyond our comfort, a different story plays out, one of survival and necessity, resonating in the valleys of Lebanon. In the Beqaa Valley, thousands of Syrian refugees have sought refuge from the conflict in their homeland. For them, residing on agricultural lands where water is indispensable for irrigation vital to their livelihoods, as well as for maintaining hygiene, underscoring the pivotal role water plays in their overall well-being. It enables children to engage in play, take refreshing showers, and consume clean water, fostering a healthier environment.
With funds from World Vision Taiwan, 788 families residing in informal tented settlements have access to clean water.
The dreamhouse
Ahmad, 16, had to bid farewell to school after only completing the third grade at the age of 11. "I aspire to be a civil engineer so I can construct a home for my family, much like the one situated on the hill facing our tent." Ahmad shares while he points at a beautiful big house. "In this dream house, I imagine a spacious pool to offer relief from the scorching summers we endure. The heat was particularly intense this year, and we resorted to showering twice every other day to feel refreshed."
As Ahmad dreams of becoming an engineer to build a comfortable home for his family, he gazes at the house in front of him, a daily reminder of his aspirations. He envisions a place where they lack nothing and can truly feel at ease.
“Water is indispensable for keeping us cool, and in our tent, it serves multiple purposes. We rely on it for cleaning, bathing, and even using the toilet. With our toilet and latrine conveniently located in front of our tent, my siblings and I feel secure using them,” Ahmad adds.
A life-saving resource
Sixteen-year-old Sedra, had to put a halt to her education in the fifth grade. "In summer, when we used to go out to work, picking grapes and cherries. We would return exhausted, making water indispensable to us. With ten people in our household, our water consumption is very high. Every three days, we refill our tanks, each time costing 300,000 Lebanese Pounds per tank. When World Vision refills our tanks, three times a month, it allows us to use the money we saved to buy other essentials,” says Sedra.
The aspiring future doctor is determined to make a difference in people's lives. Having witnessed the tragic loss of her uncle due to a medical error, she is even more motivated to study diligently and become a skilled doctor who can provide quality care and help those in need. “From a health standpoint, water holds immense importance. It's crucial for staying hydrated, maintaining bodily functions, and purifying our surroundings from harmful bacteria and viruses. I take a sip of water every five minutes, and I make sure to shower twice a day. Every time I step out of the tent, I feel the urge to freshen up and stay clean,” adds Sedra.
While some may see a drop of water as insignificant, for Sedra, the aspiring doctor, it's a vital resource that holds the potential to save lives and aid those in need. With support from World Vision and funding from Taiwan, we are able to provide clean water and efficient wastewater management to ensure that these promising children have a healthy environment in which they can flourish and become the individuals they aspire to be.