Water Plays Vital Role in Facilitating Life and Growth
by Sr. Kathleen Stagnaro, OSF

“In terms of water use, drinking water, and waterrelated disease, 1.1 billion people lack access to an improved water supply.” (“The Planet’s Water Crisis - An Indepth Look, ” by Stephen Lynch, OFM; HNP Today, October 24, 2007)

The boys at the Manning Boys’ Home in Jamaica (Southfield, St. Elizabeth) are part of that 1.1 billion. This home of safety for abused or abandoned boys is over 100 years old and the oldest government owned and operated children’s home in Jamaica. Presently at the home, there are 26 boys between the ages of 8 and 17, but the government is planning on sending 30 more boys there. Recently, the roof of the home and the new dorm were destroyed by hurricane Dean. Grace Yap and The Caribbean Youth Summit Association are assisting with improvements of the home. They have the written approval of the government.

A major need at the home is a fresh water supply. Since the home is situated on a hill, the water table is too far down, so it is not feasible to drill for a well. Alternative methods of obtaining water are being sought – catchments for rainwater and the building of another water tank. A priority of the Franciscan Federation, in conjunction with the “International Decade for Action: Water for Life,” is to care for and relate to water as ‘Sister.’ Therefore, we seek to take actions individually, collectively, and in solidarity with people throughout the earth to address concerns of water scarcity and water quality. The Region 2 membership present at the AFC voted to support a Water Project (need for a functioning water supply) at the Manning Boys’ Home in Jamaica. Jamaica is part of Region 2.

Aside from the government and funds from a few church related groups, there is little support. Money is needed for the water projects.