In the summer of 2004, our volunteers witnessed villagers relying on a single unprotected water source which is approximately mile away. Each day the girls and young women of Las Flores must hike a mile round trip to retrieve water for cooking and bathing. The three-gallon water jug they carry weighs nearly 30 lbs.

CRS/Guatemala performed an initial water analysis of the existing spring. It was found to contain high levels of fecal coliform (animal waste). This happens because birds and other small animals come to the spring to drink and bath. It is a major cause for diarrhea and other serious illness.

Father Raul Monterroso of the Diocese of Santa Rosa has asked the Metuchen CRS team to improve the quality of life in Las Flores by developing a secure water system.

The first step for the Catholic Charities Solidarity Team is to design a water filtration system that would not only remove the contamination but also pump the water to the village. Our goal is to provide safe water while making life a little easier for the people of Las Flores.

In addition, a health and sanitation an educational development program is being developed by CRS/GT and our diocesan volunteer team.

System procurement: Catholic Charities Solidarity Team has pledged to finance the project. The local community will procure the stone, sand, cement, iron, PVC pipe and cistern. The water pumps, controllers and solar Photo Voltaic components will be procured in the USA.

PROJECT DEDICATED: November 2006! Read the Catholic Spirit account of the completed project by clicking here.

For more information on the Las Flores Water Treatment project, please contact Jerry Lynch at JLynch@crsmetuchen.org.