According to the SOS team, eight projects were highlighted and undertaken to provide hand-washing stations, as well as to prioritise the adaptation, repair, rehabilitation and maintenance of existing infrastructure.

This allowed the SOS team to reach underprivileged schools and communities. The physical installations and management of these projects are combined with behaviour programming so that prevention messages and ongoing hygiene, prevention and sanitation are continuously communicated.

Seven of the eight projects focused on the local schools. They supplied over 3 800 learners with:
  • handwashing stations
  • upgrades of ablution structures
  • water tanks
  • taps
  • sinks, and
  • a secondary water supply for a new food garden that supports the school's feeding scheme.
With the Xylem Watermark donation, SOSNPO says that it has been able to ensure that the handwashing stations are strategically located and that regular monitoring and adequate regulation is in place. This will ensure the long-term functioning of the infrastructure, both in the community and the schools.

In addition to the hand washing stations and other needed upgrades, this partnership project with Xylem Watermark and SOS created 14 job opportunities to local residents who assisted with the construction teams and who now monitor, manage and sterilise the tanks.

The SOS team says that the financial implications of running projects like these are complex and, as an NPO, SOS relies on donations to carry out the work that they do.

Xylem Watermark says that it supports SOS projects as part of its commitment to:
  • sustainability
  • the environment
  • healthy lives
  • gender equality, and
  • resilient communities.

As Xylem's corporate social responsibility programme, Watermark is dedicated to creating social value by leveraging Xylem's expertise, technologies and people to help communities in need.

Watermark partners with leading non-profit organisations that are making an impact around the world and creating a movement towards solving the world's water challenges. Through Watermark, Xylem employees have volunteered more than 180 000 hours over the past four years.

SOS NPO has thanked Xylem Watermark project for its ongoing support in protecting the most vulnerable in these under-privileged communities.

For more information, visit www.xylem.com. You can also follow Xylem Watermark on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram.