After more than 24 impactful years of implementing comprehensive safe water, sanitation and hygiene education programs in some of the most rural and underserved communities of Haiti and Honduras, Pure Water for the World, Inc. (PWW) is closing its doors. Its headquarters were at 65 Grove St. in Rutland.
With the persistent economic realities of increased financial pressures and fundraising challenges inhibiting the organization’s ability to continue its sustainable development programming, the board of directors has voted to phase out work in both countries. PWW will fulfill its existing commitments to funded programs, with anticipated closure dates of Dec. 31 in Haiti and June 30 in Honduras. PWW will not be making any new program commitments.
Since its incorporation in 1999, PWW has served over 925,000 individuals living in more than 750 communities across Haiti and Central America. Over the years, PWW’s locally-based teams have installed more than 20,000 safe water filters and over 200 rainwater harvesting systems in homes, schools, orphanages, and health clinics. More than 3,000 bathroom facilities have been constructed. Community water systems have been built in 12 remote regions of Honduras. Teams have also delivered essential water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) trainings to more than 17,000 families, over 3,000 teachers, and a wide variety of other nonprofit organizations and government entities.
“We are honored to have spent the past 24-plus years working to serve so many families and communities. We could not have made this impact without the support and commitment of our benevolent donor community, Rotarians, corporations, foundations, volunteers, and partners,” said Bob Mohr, interim executive director and past board president. “Generations of children and families across Honduras and Haiti will continue to benefit from your generosity. Thank you so much.”
In the coming weeks, PWW will be working to connect with nonprofits in each country to contribute its assets and capital resources. PWW will also be meeting with local contacts to facilitate potential employment opportunities for staff members in Haiti and Honduras, many of whom have been with the organization for more than 15 years.
“While there is sadness regarding the future of PWW, there is much for our teams and donor community to celebrate. The lives of so many people have been transformed and communities have been empowered with the lasting foundation for improved health, renewed hope, and greater prosperity,” Mohr stated. “It has been an honor and a privilege to be a part of this remarkable effort.”
