“We had no other choice,” Ruquia shares, her voice laced with pain. “I had to give that water to my children. And then I had to watch them fall sick—again and again.”
— Ruquia

Her story echoes the struggles of countless families who face the impossible decision between thirst and illness. Every glass of water carried the risk of disease. Every sip her children took came with the fear of what might follow.

But hope arrived.

With the support of generous donors and the intervention of HDF’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Program, clean, safe drinking water was brought to Ruquia’s village. For the first time, she could offer her children water without fear—only relief.

Today, her home rings with the sound of laughter, not coughing. Her children are healthier. Her days are lighter. A simple glass of water, once a threat, has become a symbol of safety and dignity.

Ruquia’s story is one of transformation, but it is also a call to action. Thousands of mothers like her still wait for safe water. With continued support, HDF remains committed to reaching them because no one should have to choose between water and well-being.