Community Latrine Project - Panama
This project is to build 20 community latrines in Quebrada Pabón, a village Chiriquí, in the western part of Panama. This community is lacking sanitary facilities and there is no running water. Leaders were concerned about the health of the inhabitants and decided that sanitary latrines would be the best place to start.
Panama is an international business center, and has the largest economy in Central America. However, this community is extremely poor, without resources for basic needs. Presently, the people often defecate in the river, which is also used as a source of drinking water.
This project is being directed by Peace Corps volunteer Kathleen Fraser.
The design of the concrete latrine floor includes handles so that when the latrine fills, the floor and seat can be lifted and used in a new location, hence, its benefits will be reaped for decades.
Project funds will be used for materials for the project.
The community contribution is 46% of the total cost, and consists of labor and transportation of all materials. Supplies are transported from locations an hour away by horseback or on foot.
Community participation is also ensured by charging each family $5 to participate.
The project will serve 160 people.
Throughout the duration of this project, Peace Corps volunteers will give a series of educational seminars to teach participants about the dangers of waterborne illnesses and ways to avoid them. Families that participate will have access to clean latrines, improving the health of their families and the water quality in the community.
This project has now been fully funded through the generosity of Six Senses Resorts & Spas as a part of their Clean Water Projects initiative.
We encourage others to continue to donate using the Donate button below, and we will notify Peace Corps Volunteer Kathleen Fraser of your donation. Additional funds will be used to fund the next project by Kathleen and/or those of her counterpart PCVs in Panama.
This project has been completed. To read about the concusion, CLICK HERE.
Conclusion of Community Latrine Project – Panama
This project has been completed under the direction of Peace Corps Volunteer Kathleen Fraser. To read about the beginning of this project, CLICK HERE.
Kathleen reports:
All 20 latrines were finished on time and it was a really positive learning experience for everyone.
She went on to thank, on behalf of the latrine committee president and the entire community, all of those who contributed toward making this project a great success.
The pictures demonstrate the great support and enthusiasm of the community for the project.
Through the generosity of Six Senses Resorts & Spas we will be able to continue to fund great project such as these in Panama.
