Rich DeAsis and pat Coleman from the Rochester Rotary Club spoke to us about the Global Grant Project for clean water in Uganda.
Opening and Invocation led by David Christler
Wellness Report – Luis Alonso wasn’t feeling well, Kurt Werts, continuing to decline — is in continuing care center in Canandaigua
Guests: Richard de Asis and Patrick Coleman, our speakers, from the Rochester Rotary Club; Manny Crespo from the Newark Free Lunch Program
Announcements:
- Maurice Strobridge’s 99’th birthday on 2/2 - please send him good wishes
- Laurel House “wish list”. Please generously donate the “weekly item” as listed on the attached list.
- Doug Forgue has returned from his trip to Oregon - had a wonderful visit with his son. They experienced unexpected snow and ice - he appreciates NYS DOT - thank you for being able to handle inclement weather
- Josh McCrossen visited Niagara Falls with his wife - had a great trip.
- Mike Muscolino - 44 years at AECC on January 24th!
Paul Harris Fellowship: Presented a Paul Harris Fellow +5 to Russ Harris. Thank you for your generous support to Rotary Foundation as well as to your local club.
Queen of Hearts. Kevin Mooney did not pick the Queen - the pot continues to grow. The total is close to $2000.00
Program: PDG Norma Reilly introduced our program speakers, Richard de Asis from Rochester Rotary Club - International Services Chair and Patrick Coleman also from Rochester Rotary Club
Richard and Patrick spoke on a Global Grant Project for rural Ugandan Children in Mubende, Uganda for clean water.
2.2 billion people world wide lack a clean water supply.
1.5 million people die from water born illness globally — 25% of this number are preventable. RI, recognizing the importance of clean water, establishes partnerships with local governments through global grants to help provide clean water, especially to children.
Partnering with the non-profit Untapped Shores, using WASH models (Water purification, sanitation, hygiene) established by Elizabeth and Patrick Shores and have achieved great success.
Many government water sources are dirty and filled with bacteria and parasites. Many people must travel up to 6 miles to have access to a water source.
Project will focus on 27 rural schools near Mubende, Uganda. They are looking to raise $100,000 to be able to reach these 27 schools - up to 16,000 children plus their families. Every 3,700 raised = one additional school.
The technology that Untapped Shores uses is: a specialized cup made by a Rochester company, salt, and a battery. Using this technology they can produce a highly concentrated chlorine. A small amount of chlorine can then sanitize many liters of water. It is an easy device to use so that schools, families, and communities can sanitize their water to make it safe for everyone. This technology was created and patented right here in Rochester.
Also, retaining structures are being built to retain the water during the rainy season — so there is a more stable water supply during the dry season.
Most schools use a rain water retaining system. The rain water needs to be filtered and then purified to be safe for drinking and hygiene.
District 7120 has already committed to $25,000. Any private donations will be given Paul Harris Fellowship points. The host club in Uganda has made significant donations towards this project as well. Looking for any donations to help completely fund this worthy project. Change Starts With Water