March 22 marks World Water Day. More than 1.6 million children die each year from illnesses caused by drinking contaminated water. Every day, 25,000 people die from preventable diseases such as cholera and typhoid after drinking unsafe water.

Episcopal Relief and Development is building better water systems and teaching hygiene practices in countries such as Nicaragua, Tanzania, El Salvador, and the Philippines. ERD is working to provide clean drinking water to children and their families in rural communities plagued with poor sanitation, unhealthy hygiene, and polluted water sources.

In Tanzania, 36% of the population falls below the poverty line. Almost 44% of Tanzanian households still use unsafe drinking water and have limited access to health care. ERD is training community health workers and traditional birth attendants from four villages in Kondoa and Zanzibar. The training covers sanitation, nutrition, reproductive health, and care for children under five. The training helps improve the overall health of each community so people can live longer lives.

Nicaragua is the second poorest country in the Western hemisphere. Disease, poor health care systems, and contaminated water systems are widespread. In four regions in the country, ERD is installing latrines and water wells and teaching healthy hygiene methods. The program works with local committees in the villages of El Sauce, Ciudad Dario, Camoapa, and Bijagua to construct and install wells, wash stations, and latrines.

"Through our programs, we provide families with clean drinking water in Central America, Africa, and Asia," said Sandra Swan, ERD President.

To make a contribution to ERD and help people around the world, donate online or call (800) 334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.

Episcopal Relief and Development is an effective, reliable, and vital ministry of the Episcopal Church in communities around the world. Episcopal Relief and Development provides emergency assistance in times of disaster, rebuilds devastated communities after the immediate crisis is over, and offers long-term solutions to help people sustain safer, healthier, and more productive lives.