Over the last week, Metea students participated in the “Free The Children – Clean Water Project”, an initiative that supports the construction of new sources of clean water in rural villages in under developed countries. Students bought t-shirts for $12, and proceeds have supported new sources of clean water in places like China, India, Kenya, Nicaragua, Sierra Leone, Haití, Ghana, and Ecuador.

“I have always enjoyed helping the less fortunate better their situation. I appreciate what I have and want others to have the basic necessities of life. Change starts small and I am hoping to grow this project so that people in poverty can rise above their circumstances and be empowered to be agents of change,” said sophomore Aashin Amin, the founder of the project.

All proceeds fund the “Free The Children Foundation”, an international charity working domestically and internationally to improve the lives of underprivileged youth everywhere. Over 783 million people, 11 percent of the world population, remain without access to a clean water source. Since the creation of the clean water and sanitation pillar, the “Free The Children Foundation” reports over 1,000,000 people have been provided with improved access to clean water, healthcare, and sanitation.

The project has had a profound impact on youth around the world. Aiming to improve the health and quality of communities around the world, more children would be able to attend school and more people would be able to prevent waterborne diseases. Additionally, the new water sources will improve environmental sustainability in the regions where the sources will be implemented.

The project has already hit home as well. “I believe that we have yet to see the full impact on Metea. Hopefully, this effort will serve as a catalyst for ideas and inspire more students to get involved in helping others around the globe or in their community,” said MV Student Government supervisor Donald Pankuch. Many students at Metea have developed a new perspective on their own lives after learning more about the initiative. “I have definitely looked at myself and asked, ‘What am I doing to help others?’” said sophomore Oke Metitiri. “It’s important for people to realize how lucky they are in this world, especially when we can easily take something as simple as water for granted.”

To order a t-shirt, print an order form and turn it in to Mr. Pankuch in the G220 staff office by Friday, Mar. 28. To print the order form, click here!

By Nirmal Mulaikal