Building Clean Water Capacity in American Samoa
GrantID: 1558
Grant Funding Amount Low: Open
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: Open
Summary
Grant Overview
Rainwater Harvesting for Clean Water Access in American Samoa
American Samoa faces critical challenges concerning access to clean drinking water, particularly in its rural and remote areas. The island’s topography and climate make traditional water supply systems unreliable and inconsistent, with prolonged periods of drought impacting freshwater availability. According to the American Samoa Environmental Protection Agency, many communities rely on rainwater collection, which is vulnerable to seasonal changes and contamination. This precarious situation emphasizes the need for sustainable water access solutions tailored to the unique geographic context of American Samoa.
Local communities in American Samoa, particularly those residing in remote villages, often struggle with inadequate water supply systems and face significant barriers to accessing clean drinking water. This is especially true for lower-income households that may lack resources to invest in proper water storage and treatment systems. Given the reliance on sporadic rainfall, periods of water scarcity can lead to health risks linked to waterborne diseases, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations within these communities.
The proposed initiative focuses on building capacity through implementing rainwater harvesting systems across rural areas in American Samoa. Grant funding will support local nonprofits in collaboration with community leaders and technical experts to install collection and filtration systems that can provide consistent access to clean drinking water. This approach not only addresses immediate water scarcity but also empowers communities to develop more resilient water management strategies in the face of climate change and extreme weather events.
Additionally, the investment in rainwater harvesting is essential for enhancing resilience against potential climate impacts, allowing communities to reduce dependence on external water supplies and increasing self-sufficiency. By creating sustainable systems for clean water access, American Samoa can improve health outcomes for its residents, particularly in rural areas where water accessibility is inconsistent. Over time, these systems can cultivate community responsibility and engagement in maintaining local resources, ensuring that all residents benefit from reliable access to drinking water.
In conclusion, the unique climatic and geographic challenges faced by American Samoa require innovative approaches to water access. Through the establishment of rainwater harvesting systems, this grant initiative aims to build local capacity while addressing immediate water supply issues, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents across the islands.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
