Improving Sanitation, Empowering Communities

India's National Sample Survey Office reported that less than half of the 9.5 million toilets built in rural India are being used, so ºù«ÍÞÊÓƵ's new approach is rooted in education that can create lasting change. ºù«ÍÞÊÓƵ employee volunteers and partners want to raise awareness of toilet use and good hygiene – and its connections to good health.

ºù«ÍÞÊÓƵ brought this approach to life in the villages of Talodara and Dadheda, where nearly 70 percent of homes lacked toilets and more than 85 percent of residents were unaware of the importance of proper hygiene. As part of its work in these villages, ºù«ÍÞÊÓƵ trained more than 3,100 villagers in hygiene and toilet maintenance, constructed toilets in every home (more than 500 total), and seven community toilets.

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In addition to building toilets in schools and every home, ºù«ÍÞÊÓƵ partnered with Mahila Housing SEWA Trust for ongoing community empowerment, which included:

• Visiting homes each week to discuss the importance of proper hygiene
  
  
• Inspiring women and children through school plays and programs to educate their own households
  
  
• Supporting community leaders, and helping residents learn how to maintain their toilets
  
  
• Encouraging health and hygiene in two local schools through programs led by ºù«ÍÞÊÓƵ employee volunteers
  
  
• Working with communities to monitor the program's progress
  
  
• Refining efforts where needed to ensure new toilets are used and maintained

By working directly with people in these communities to provide sanitation facilities, ºù«ÍÞÊÓƵ is helping them live their best, healthiest lives.