I have been taking clean, fresh, soft water for granted especially as it rains so much in Glasgow, but when I heard the story of children walking hours and hours simple to collect fresh water it truly touched my heart. It also brought back a memory of being 12 years old in 1985, researching for a school report on the famine in Ethiopia. That experience left me feeling helpless and wanting to do something but also believing I wouldn't be able to make a difference when I was older - I couldn't imagine becoming a nurse or doctor, and didn't think there was another way I could help - now age 53, that memory has returned along side a real opportunity and I jumped at it. This is my time to make that difference in Africa.

A mature sand dam can store up to 40 million litres of water, often supplying more than 1,000 people with reliable near by water source for decades. As well as providing clean water, sand dams recharge ground water, help regreen the landscape, and strengthen communities' resilience to climate change. Since 2002, Sam Dams Worldwide and its partners have helped over one million people living in dryland regions gain access to clean water and improved food security.

Although this expedition has been self-funded by Barclays colleagues, we are seeking support to fund the materials and technical supervision needed so the community can build and own their dam. Once water is nearby, families also receive training in climate-smart agriculture, enabling households to grow food to eat, store and sell - creating a sustainable investment that continues to pay back, season after season.
Every pound donated (up to £1000) will be matched by Barclays meaning your support goes twice as far. Together, we can help communities secure water for life, restore their land and give children and parents precious time for school, work and family life.
Thank you for you generous support, ever £1 makes a difference.
Gift Aid: If you are a UK tax payer, please tick Gift Aid so Sand Dams Worldwide can claim an additional 25% from HMRC at no extra cost to you.


Trish Mcclay