As parents, we encourage our children to drink water and wash their hands multiple times a day. We all know the importance of staying hydrated and preventing the spread of germs through handwashing. The idea of not being able to access clean water has never crossed my mind, that is, until I found out that not everyone in Canada has access to safe, clean, drinking water.
Here are some shocking stats:
- 14% of First Nation communities in Canada are affected by a drinking water advisory.
- 21% of First Nation communities in Ontario are affected by a drinking water advisory.
As part of Wee Watch’s commitment to corporate, social, and environmental responsibility, our organization understands the importance of supporting initiatives that ensure that the basic human right – access to water is achieved. To commemorate our 40th anniversary, we looked to assist charities and organizations that can make a difference in the water crisis and found Water First Education & Training.
Access to clean water in Indigenous communities in Canada continues to be a challenge. Water First works in partnership with Indigenous Communities to address local water challenges through education, training, and meaningful collaboration. Infrastructure and technology alone cannot solve the water crisis. Having enough skilled people to operate and maintain the systems is also critical. Water First believes safe water needs skilled people. Program participants develop the technical skills needed to go on to employment or further education in water science fields.
In Ontario, particularly in Indigenous communities, there have been longstanding issues with access to clean water, which have garnered significant attention and advocacy efforts in recent years. The impact of no clean water on children in these communities, can be severe and wide-ranging.
Children are at risk of waterborne diseases like diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid fever – all illnesses that can be dangerous for children whose immune systems are not fully developed. Without clean water, children may struggle to wash their hands properly, leading to increased susceptibility to infections and diseases. Lack of access to clean water can disrupt education for children. Schools may struggle to provide a safe and healthy environment for learning without clean water for drinking, handwashing, and sanitation facilities. Not to mention children may miss school due to illness caused by contaminated water, further hindering their educational progress. Lastly, living without access to clean water can take a toll on children’s emotional and psychological well-being. The uncertainty and instability caused by the lack of clean water can have long-term effects on children’s mental health and development.
Wee Watch believes access to clean and safe drinking water is a basic human right. We encourage others to join us in supporting Water First’s mission and making a positive impact on global water security. Together, we can create a world where every individual has access to the clean water they need to thrive.