The combined goal of the two organizations is to raise $250,000 during the remainder 2018. This project coincides with OWC’s 30th anniversary and it reemphasizes the company’s commitment to environmental causes.
OWC is a leading zero emissions company that is committed to bringing charity work and sustainability to the tech industry. With this, OMC’s values align with Splash’s mission. Splash is a clean water charity and undertakes work to ensure that clean water flows from taps. Furthermore, the charity teaches children the importance of washing their hands with soap, and the organization provides students with access to safe and sanitary restrooms.
It is estimated that over 1.8 billion people lack consistent access to clean water and a further 2.4 billion people lack access to improved sanitation. While the urban water crisis affects all people, the impact on children is particularly hard.
According to the World Health Organization, diarrheal disease is the second leading cause of death in children under five years old. Each year diarrhea kills around 525,000 children under five. Infection is spread through contaminated food or drinking-water, or from person-to-person as a result of poor hygiene.
Challenges to supplying clean water to communities in low income countries include the geographical issues relating to the fact many rural communities in semi-arid areas experience highly seasonal rainfall which is mostly lost as run-off. In dry seasons people have to travel further to collect water. The problem is this is often water of poor quality. Furthermore, in many urban environments, there is no sewage infrastructure and the management of on-site sanitation is inadequate.
Commenting on the partnership, OWC Founder and CEO Larry O’Connor stated: “OWC has been committed to green practices since our inception, and as we celebrate 30 years in business, we renew that commitment by supporting Splash, who are bringing clean water and improved sanitation to children across the globe. These solutions will have lasting impact for generations, and empower independence and better living opportunities.”
The funds raised will go directly to water, sanitation, and hygiene projects to support children living in poverty. OWC will be matching funds raised up to $125,000 and will additionally provide discounts on their site MacSales for donations over $50. OWC has pledged to provide on-going information on how the donations are helping communities.
