Sao Sary Foundation Projects
Behind every drop of clean water lies a story of resilience. Discover how the Sao Sary Foundation Projects turn simple solutions into life‑changing impact…
Overview
The Sao Sary Foundation Projects include the transformative Water for Life Kampong Speu Project, a long-term initiative addressing Cambodia’s rural water crisis. From 2011 to 2017, Water for Life (Kampong Speu) was initiated and managed by the Singapore International Foundation (SIF) with the goal of providing over 8,400 Cambodian villagers convenient access to clean drinking water through the installation of 1,400 bio-sand filters in rural households.
This project was made possible through sponsorship from Ngee Ann Development Pte Ltd and partnership with the Sao Sary Foundation, a Cambodian non-profit organization based in Kampong Speu. Singapore International Volunteers (SIVs) played a vital role, traveling to Cambodia to build and install filters directly in villagers’ homes — a hands-on act of compassion and collaboration.
The Water Crisis
Globally, 785 million people lack access to basic drinking water services. In Cambodia, with a population of 16.4 million, at least 12.6 million live in rural areas with limited or poor access to clean water. By 2017, only 1 million rural households had piped water supply, and half of these still practiced open defecation.
The Sao Sary Foundation Projects respond to this crisis through sustainable water solutions — empowering communities to overcome health, sanitation, and dignity challenges.
Major Accomplishments (2006–2019)
The Sao Sary Foundation Projects achieved remarkable milestones in water, hygiene, and sanitation:
2,700 bio-sand filters distributed
43 new hand pump wells built
4 broken wells upgraded
200 pit latrines constructed
54 first aid kits distributed after training village leaders
6,651 hygiene kits given to schoolchildren
497 feminine hygiene kits distributed to teenage girls
A communal hall and two health centers built and refurbished
These accomplishments reflect the foundation’s commitment to improving health, education, and community resilience.
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Next Ten Years Program (2019–2029)
The Sao Sary Foundation Projects now aim to build a water treatment plant and piped water networks for 15,000 poor families across 54 villages in Kampong Speu Province — directly impacting 72,000 people. Each family will enjoy clean, safe drinking water at their doorstep for up to 25 years.
The foundation also plans to construct 40 new communal halls and health centers, strengthening healthcare and sanitation infrastructure.
Objectives
Reduce water- and sanitation-related diseases
Increase community capacity for hygiene and health practices
Strengthen local management of water and sanitation facilities
How You Can Help
You can join the Sao Sary Foundation Projects and make a lasting impact:
Sign Up as a Fundraiser: https://ssf.give.asia/fundraise/new
Make a Donation: https://ssf.give.asia
Inspire Others: Share your campaign and invite friends to support clean water and community development.
Together, we can give water, dignity, and hope to thousands of Cambodian families.