Cows, Wells and Latrines

SHEAF has worked closely with their Partner, The Asocciation Cristiana de Jovenes (ACJ_YMCA) in the southern part of Nicaragua, near the town of Rivas and the municipality of Rivas, to improve the life of rural families. The ACJ-YMCA has a relationship with the YMCA's around the world including Canada but in Nicaragua the ACJ-YMCA is totally a developmental agency. 

The ACJ-YMCA and SHEAF have worked closely together on several projects. Before each project is started, three way conversations between the ACJ-YMCA, SHEAF and community leaders, promotors. The projects in order were:

Introduction of cows enhance food security.

Reconstruction of old wells and introduction of new wells to ensure potable water supply for families, cows and irrigation.

Improved sanitation through the construction of latrines.

These projects took place area of Veracruz near the city of Rivas in Southern Nicaragua.

Other Endeavours

This community not only recognizes the need to protect and conserve the water supply from contamination through proper sanitation but is aware of larger environmental issues. A committee of Potable Water and Sanitation (CAPS) has been formed which will oversee the water supply, will train locals on water conservation, will teach how to test water for pathogens and PH levels and will provide instructions on proper use of chlorine. In addition, the six communities living along the Veracruz River have been trained in preserving the river and reforestation is being done in these and other communities to preserve the environment.

The cow, well and latrine project together with the commitment of local communities to conserve and preserve the environment bodes well for a sustainable future.