This past fall, Merit Travel Group called on their employees and clients to be mindful of the broader world around them by supporting WaterAid. And rise to the challenge they did, raising more than $30,000.

Toyiba Ibrahim, 14, left and Fozia Indris, 13, are seventh-grade students at Korebtit Primary School. Korebtit, Kalu, South Wolo, Ethiopia.

Funds raised will help students like Toyiba (left), 14, and Fozia Indris, 13 through WaterAid Canada’s Clean Water for Schools Project. Toyiba and Fozia are seventh-grade students at Korebtit Primary School in Ethiopia, which recently received access to water and toilets.

“If this water didn’t come in and the new toilets were not constructed, as a girl I would be skipping classes every time I had my period. But now I don’t have to leave school. I can go to the girls’ room, which has a shower; I can change my sanitary pad, wash and come back to class,” said Fozia.

The Clean Water for Schools Project is a five-year program to improve poor water sanitation and hygiene conditions common to many schools in this region of sub-Saharan Africa. Through the project, WaterAid will reach 120,000 boys and girls attending 170 schools throughout Ethiopia, Uganda and Kenya with access to safe water, toilets and hygiene education.

Access to safe water, basic toilets and hygiene education on school grounds helps to unleash a powerful cycle of opportunity, with healthy children at the heart of it. With these basic services, Merit Travel Group’s incredible support will help children realize their full potential and achieve a more prosperous future.

Jason Merrithew – President, Merit Travel Group, Lou Lou de Grandpré – Chief Operations Officer, Merit Travel Group, Michael Merrithew – Chairman & CEO Merit Travel Group

From WaterAid staff, partners, volunteers, and most importantly recipients of clean water, THANK YOU Merit Travel for sharing our vision of a world where everyone everywhere has access to safe water, toilets and hygiene.