Cambodia

Hope Australia is currently focusing on Cambodia, predominantly in a rural area called Pursat where the lack of clean water is a serious issue. Drinkable water is a basic need which is key to life, however many Cambodians, out of necessity, drink water which carries deadly diseases like cholera or dysentery. Yearly, thousands of Cambodians die from diseases associated with drinking dirty water. Another serious problem is a lack of nutritious vegetables in the diet of poor rural families.  With an average annual income of less than $250, there is no way these families can afford even the most basic of garden tools, much less the seeds. HOPE Australia's objective is to bring clean water and nutritious food to suffering families in the Pursat region of Cambodia.

To bring clean water, HOPE is constructing water wells in communities in the Pursat region.  These wells will provide a reliable source of clean drinking water and also water for irrigating vegetable gardens. The cost of one well, including materials, construction, training and health education is $1300. A well provides a lifelong supply of clean water and the ability to irrigate crops for four families.