Emergency Water and Sanitation

Water, the most basic of life's necessities, is also a treasure easily taken for granted. ANERA recognizes the endless opportunities created by providing access to this treasure – for the health of families, farms and the ecosystem – and responds through EWAS, a $16.8 million program, funded by USAID.

EWAS projects are a response to emergency situations in the West Bank and Gaza where often communities’ access to water is limited. At the same time, jobs are created for the local population in poverty stricken areas. In 2007, EWAS commissioned 100 projects in the West Bank and Gaza, creating 35,000 days worth of employment in that time.

Each EWAS project provides long-term benefit to the targeted communities.

Providing water

The daily amount of water available to Palestinians falls far below minimum levels set by the World Health Organization (WHO). To address this situation, ANERA expands and rehabilitates existing water networks. In 2007 alone, ANERA ensured that more than 19,500 additional households are now enjoying access to clean water. The immediate impact is evident: cost for water is reduced and household sanitation standards improved.

Discharging sewage

Only 12% of Palestinian villages are connected to sewage networks. The EWAS program upgrades and expands sewage networks. ANERA has connected about 30,000 additional households to local networks. These projects have reduced waterborne diseases because sewage is now being safely disposed.

Excavating rainwater collection cisterns

Only 69% of Palestinian communities are connected to a water network. Many villages are isolated and modern water services are not likely to reach them in the foreseeable future. In these cases, villages can collect rainwater which, after proper chlorination, is fit to drink. So far, ANERA has created 140 cisterns for poor Palestinian families through EWAS projects.

Improving water and sanitation in schools and clinics

Due to the harsh economic situation, schools and clinics often do not have the means to properly maintain toilets, sinks and water tanks. Over the last year, EWAS has provided numerous clinics with the proper sanitation facilities in their examination rooms, so staff can wash their hands before treating patients, and numerous schools with updated toilet facilities, so children can learn in a clean and comfortable environment.