Wells continue to bring clean water to village in Haiti

While many countries don't see clean water as a luxury, others view it as better than gold. And that's exactly what one organization has been working for over 26 years in Haiti to change.

Since the charity was founded by Willis Miller in 1983, Water For Life in Haiti, has drilled over 650 wells that have predicted to been used by nearly a million people and has dramatically changed the landscape of agriculture for the village of PasBwaDom - about 80 miles South West of Port au Prince.

Luckily, the earthquake that hit the already impoverished area didn't harm the wells that Willis said introduced the Haitian people in the village to the concept of clean water.

“They had no idea what clean water was until the wells came,” he said. “They just beg and beg for water.”

With the clean water came a population increase and the quality of life soon followed as people were able to grow luscious fruits, vegetables and other crops as well as raise livestock in ways not possible before the wells were dug.

But with the living condition's now shattered, the importance of clean water only increases, Miller said. In his past trips where he would visit the clinics, he said there would be as many as 30 people a day being seen for sicknesses related to dirty water.

Miller's son Leon Miller and his wife Joy Miller, and their adult son Troy Miller all live and work in the village of PasBwaDom.

Willis Miller said the group has shifted their efforts since the earthquake hit and have been doing whatever is needed to help people recover.

“I heard the cries of thousands of people, injured and buried in the rubble, and of those in the streets hurrying to see if their loved ones were OK,” said Joy Miller in a letter sent home Jan. 15.

Despite increasing challenges, Willis Miller said they will continue to drill as many wells as money allows since each well costs around $70,000. He said around 150 people use one well, many of which are being pumped 24-hours-a-day.

“It really makes me feel good when people appreciate what you did. That's more than money can buy.” he said. Miller's last trip there was in April 2009 and he said it will likely be his last since he turns 90 later this month.

Leonard Hochstedler, director of the office in Kalona, said he spends his time organizing efforts stateside in order to ensure supplies like basic toiletries, towels, tents, rice, beans and large buckets used for transporting water, are sent over as soon as possible.

“The issue with the rainy season coming up is finding a place for people to live,” he said.

To donate money or supplies, contact Water for Life at waterforlife@hotmail.com or call 319-656-3610.