PROJECT PROGRESS
The goal of bringing clean water to the community of Gualapuro includes creating a water collection system, a reservoir tank, and a pump house. Although it can be written simply, the effort that the community has put towards making this possible throughout the past year has been astounding. Amazingly, through the efforts of local community members, The Tandana Foundation, and the help of a few compassionate expats, the newly elected Mayor Mario Conejo pledged support for the project and has been essential throughout the process thus far. Here is a video of the community receiving the news that they would be able to start working. It is obvious that such enthusiasm still remains!
Phase One
The first phase required purchasing materials (tanks, tubes, etc.) and digging trenches to create the water capture system at the river. This includes six water capturing tanks, in which pumps are installed to direct the water, that lead the water to one larger tank that is connected via underground tubes to the main reservoir above the town. A secure pump house was also created.
Phase Two
Phase two was creating the large reservoir above the town. The Municipality was able to provide sand, rocks, and rebar for construction of the reservoir that will be able to hold 30,000 gallons of water. Throughout this process, Tandana has not only helped to manage funds but also facilitate the help of volunteers from around the world.
Phase Three
That brings us to our current status: phase three. Approximately $15,000 is necessary to provide each home with the necessary devices to bring water from the reservoir to their homes and complete the pumping system. Each house needs a new set of valves that cost about $100. With 84 houses in the community, more than half of the funds will go towards replacing the existing pipes that would contaminate the clean water. Completing the pumping system requires the electric meter and breakers and additional security for the system to prevent theft, mudslides, etc.
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Every dollar counts and any contribution that you are able to make will be appreciated by each member of the Gualapuro community. Here are some of the families that you would be assisting to gain access to clean water.
