How do you choose where a well goes?
People request the well locations. We work with them to determine which location best serves local needs.
Can wells be dug anywhere?
No. Wells can only be placed on property owned by affiliated places, schools, or orphanages.
Do you own well drilling equipment?
No. We contract with established well-drilling companies who have a history of success in the region we are working in.
Can I go see a well that I sponsor?
On-site visits are controlled by the people who oversee the well location. Some well locations are known to be a travel-risk and therefore are not accessible to donors. Others can be visited with approval of the regional person.
How much do wells cost?
The cost of a well varies by region. Depth of the hole, type of terrain, travel distance for the well drilling company, and cost of equipment can range drastically from one country to the next. For example, our least expensive well was only $600. Our most expensive well was $15,000. To-date, our wells have averaged approximately $6,000-$8,000 each.
Who manages the well once it is dug?
Well maintenance and upkeep become the responsibility of the place, school, or orphanage that owns the land where the well is located. As of this writing, all wells provided by us are still in operation.
Do you do other types of water projects?
Yes. We have also supplied holding tanks and filter systems. There are places where rainfall can be collected and held in reserve in lieu of a well system.
Where do you get your seeds from?
We have supplied people on three continents with garden seeds from Hope Seeds, Inc., an international humanitarian seed development and packaging program located in Bertrand, MO. You can learn more about their program at www.hopeseeds.org. Small groups are welcomed to participate in seed packing events.
Can I name a well in honor of someone?
Yes! Naming rights are typically offered to the person, family, or organization that donates over 50% of the cost of a well. Wells named in honor of a deceased loved one is an excellent way to secure the compassionate legacy of those how have made a difference in your life.
Can I just donate money to the fund, or do I have to pick a specific project?
Donors are encouraged to give any amount to the endowment fund without specifying a project. This allows us to quickly respond to emergency situations.
Get Involved
We can’t do it alone. We can only continue this important work with the help of donations and volunteers. If you’ve ever wondered what you could do to help someone less fortunate than you, here’s how: