BCause’s ‘Drop By Drop’ program takes a broad approach to improving access to water, sanitation and hygiene across Bulgaria. Activities range from restoring local water sources and tackling longer-term supply problems to installing drinking fountains in public spaces, while also promoting community engagement and awareness around sustainable water use.
The program also reaches people whose needs are very immediate. In Sofia, new facilities will provide homeless and other vulnerable people with access to hygiene and sanitation services.
Taken together, these three interventions are using water and sanitation to promote health, environmental sustainability, social inclusion and individual dignity.
In the first strand, a national grants program is supporting NGOs and municipalities to restore water sources, reduce pollution and develop solutions to local water shortages, with improved drinking water expected to benefit around 45,000 people.
Second, around 40 new drinking fountains in parks and other public spaces will provide free water for thousands of residents, visitors and tourists – while encouraging reusable bottles – hence reducing plastic waste.
Third, ‘Drop By Drop’ is specifically addressing the needs of the socially excluded. Working with partners The Pink House and Caritas Sofia, the program will establish new facilities where the homeless and disadvantaged can shower, launder clothes and access hygiene supplies alongside medical and legal support. Simply by restoring access to personal hygiene, the program will boost their health and dignity while fostering greater social inclusion.
25 years of investment in disaster management
Countries where we have supported our partners’ work in response to a growing range of threats to life and livelihood
Million CHF invested since 2001 to help communities better prepare for and recover from disasters
Projects addressing disaster-related challenges and supporting community resilience
