Water

Photo: Sean Sheridan for Mercy Corps

Water is the source of life — but when it's not properly managed, can breed disease, create conflict and destroy communities. Mercy Corps works to provide access to clean water around the world, whether it's bringing relief during droughts or rebuilding wells in remote villages. We also help people learn proper sanitation, improve distribution and irrigation, and strengthen communities against flooding.

All stories about Water

Kosovo: Mercy Corps program delivers clean water to Kosovo village May 30, 2003

For many years the residents of Temal, a small village in Kosovo, have dreaded walking to the town's wells to gather water, especially during the cold winter months. Now, many people in Temal will no longer need to make that trip.
India: One cup at a time December 19, 2002

Corporate scandals may be what make the news, but many corporations are now getting involved with ventures motivated by values. Traditionally, the effort to contribute has been through donations to non-profit organizations or foundations established by the corporations.
Georgia: Water Power November 12, 2002
Indonesia: Peaceful Water to Cool Conflict October 2, 2002
Afghanistan: Orchards Promise the Fruit for Future Generations September 19, 2002
Afghanistan: Building a Community of Participation July 23, 2002

"Self-sustaining" and "community empowerment" are two terms found in almost every humanitarian assistance plan. Overused and sometimes overlooked, they represent the cornerstone of long-term success.
Afghanistan: Rebuilding Opportunity July 11, 2002

It was supposed to be 18 kilometers of life, flowing through rural villages and farms as steady as a summer breeze. It would be a welcome elixir that would keep families and livestock healthy, while allowing an impoverished region to claw its way to economic prosperity.
Afghanistan: Master Trainers July 11, 2002

On the inhospitable border, nicknamed "No Man's Land", between Pakistan and Afghanistan, a husband and wife team is working to improve the lives of Afghan refugee families flowing to and from Pakistan. Parveen and Syed Safdar are Master Trainers for Mercy Corps.
Afghanistan: Hope for the Best, Plan for the Worst May 28, 2002

CHAMAN, Pakistan - Not a tree, bush or green living thing can be seen for miles. Dust-devils spot the arid landscape near the Pakistani town of Chaman, on the Afghan border. It is this hot, inhospitable place that over 33,000 Afghan refugees call home, for now.
Afghanistan: A family struggles to survive in Afghanistan July 18, 2001

Mullah Hatem is 75 years old. Two months ago he was forced to leave his home in Ghor Province and take his family further south in search of food and water. He is sick and cannot afford to feed his family, let alone visit a doctor.