The struggle for water was a daily challenge in Villa Esther. The river, the only water source in the community, was contaminated with debris. Trash discarded by passing boats clogged the section where residents collected their water, creating a dangerous mess. This debris wasn’t just sticks and leaves; garbage also contaminated the water with pollutants. Residents had no choice but to drink this water, and because of this, residents suffered from diarrhea, anemia, parasites, and malnutrition. The tropical climate also increased the threat of dengue, a disease carried by mosquitoes that breed near stagnant water, adding to the mounting health problems for the community. [Read more]