A Step Toward Better Health: Flushable Toilets in St. Martin

Can you make a difference in Haiti?

Students in St. Martin say “YES!”

In fact, they send their thanks to you for investing in better bathrooms for their school. Previously, there were only 4 pit latrines (think outhouses) available for more than 200 students to use. Now, thanks to your support for the “blok sanitaire”, the school has 10 flushing toilets as well as sinks where students can wash their hands. 

Like most of our projects, this Blok Sanitaire began as an idea from a local leader. In this case, Pastor Daniel and Pastor Mentor spoke with our staff members, Jules and Jeanne, about the need for better bathrooms as the school was growing. Together, they worked on plans and identified an unused well that could be a resource for running water. A local contractor and crew were hired (providing work opportunities for the area), and the project was underway. 

Not surprisingly, given the extensive turmoil in Haiti, it was difficult to source building materials at times. But the project is now complete, the toilets and sinks have been installed and plumbed, and the bathroom is fully operational. The students have access to more bathrooms and can also wash their hands!

Your generosity is providing better sanitation for students in this remote village in Southern Haiti, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases! Watch this video to see more about the project and hear the heartfelt “MESI!” from the children.

Thank you for the important role that you play in equipping local leaders to transform Haiti, one village, one family, one person—one school bathroom—at a time. We cannot do this without you!