The Sweet Sound of Gushing Water
After two years of renovation efforts, the longstanding water issue at Antalaha prison has been successfully resolved. Last year we installed a submersible pump, and although it helped bring more water into the prison, it wasn’t sufficient. Severe electricity outages prevented the pump from filling the water tank quickly enough and prisoners were easily met with empty water spigots during the hottest part of the day. One of the most prized possessions in the prison last year was an empty water bottle, to quickly fill when water was available. This year, we purchased a stronger motor, along with new pipes, fittings, and spigots so that water can be brought up to the tank quickly even with limited electricity supply. We meticulously inspected the prison for pipe leaks and promptly replaced any identified. Prisoners are now regularly stopping Maoly in passing to personally express their gratitude. The Head of Prison Management has also extended repeated thanks to us. This experience has made me realize how much I've taken a steady water supply for granted.
I was visiting the teenage section a couple days back when water came flooding into the huge cement basin. One kid took off his worn and torn clothes, washed and hung them up, and walked around naked until his clothes dried. That did it for Hanitra and me. We found a wholesale market, bought 200 t-shirts and 100 pair of shorts and handed them out to the 77 boys the following day.
And so, my friends, work carries on. Thank you for your loving-kindness this Holy Week.
