PAY-FOR-SERVICE MODEL ANNIVERSARY
Twenty years ago, we introduced our pay-for-service model to break the cycle of charity dependency that keeps communities waiting for outside help to meet basic needs. In Haiti, this approach was revolutionary.
A common question we hear: "What if someone can't pay?" After partnering with over 526 communities, we've learned that context and community leadership are everything.
A monthly water subscription costs about $1 - the same as a Coke that many families purchase multiple times each month. It comes down to priorities and choices.
Most importantly, each community decides how to support families facing hardship. They know who recently lost work, suffered a death in the family, or had livestock lost. Communities often respond by hiring these families as well guards or offering bucket sales to help them get by.
Last June, we partnered with Rotary to install a solar pump in the community of Lakos Jean Louis. While more expensive to maintain than hand pumps, solar systems are easier for older residents and children to use.
The outcome? Their community-managed account now has over $1,300 saved for repairs and maintenance. Instead of waiting for the next charity intervention this community has achieved something remarkable: sustainable, reliable, safe water that they oversee themselves.
