For many in America, getting a drink of water is as simple as turning on the faucet. But for residents of the water scarce region of Sub-Saharan Africa, a drink of water could mean a 10-mile walk, if there is any water available at all.
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To make an impact on this growing crisis, the seventh-grade students at North Middle School in Belleville are going to sponsor the building of a well for a village in the Sub-Saharan region. The students are trying to raise $3500, enough money to build the well and educate the recipients on its use.
The initiative was started by two seventh-grade teachers, Ron Hoepfner and Steve Hudock, as part of a cross-curricular unit on Africa.
"This program is a great opportunity for students to take on a leadership role within their community while raising money for a worthwhile cause," Hudock said.
Students and teachers are partnering with The African Well Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building and maintaining wells in water-sparse regions in Africa. Once the students raise enough funds, AWF will drill, install and help to maintain the well.
More than half of all peoples in Africa do not have access to safe drinking water, and those who do, might need to walk up to 10 miles to reach it. Access to safe drinking water greatly improves villagers' health, as over 80 percent of all disease in developing countries is related to poor drinking water.
Students are participating in a variety of fund-raising activities including a spaghetti dinner fund-raiser. The dinner will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. April 24 at North Middle School in Belleville. There is a suggested donation of $3 to attend the dinner.
Donations can be sent to North Middle School c/o Steve Hudock, 47097 McBride St, Belleville, MI 48111 by May 9.
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