It was Global Hand-Washing Day on 15th October – an important day in the calendar to raise the issue of hand washing and good hygiene – vital in the prevention of water-borne diseases. The World Health Organisation states that every year more than 3.4 million people die globally as a result of water related diseases, making it the leading cause of disease and death around the world. Most of the victims are young children.
As part of Ace Child to Child Clubs, children learn hand-washing measures and how to prevent common water-borne diseases. This picture illustrates the ‘simple’ leaky tins which are in abudnace amongst schools with Ace CtC Clubs. These leaky tins are placed near all toilets and from trees in the school grounds so children can wash their hands after using facilities as well as before eating.
The Ace CtC Clubs also help identify and support children who are not at school or do not have food, they create kitchen gardens and maintain a clean school and home environment. The health clubs provide these children with the opportunity to have a meal at school, to learn about nutrition and gardening, to receive counselling and guidance, make friends and have fun. Through drama, singing and poetry they are able to tell their stories and support each other. Some clubs have also established school shops where they sell vegetables and other items to the community, this helps them to get money to buy seeds, soap or uniforms. Ace Africa trains teachers in the CtC methodology so that children can establish, govern and manage their own CtC clubs.
For more information about Ace CtC Clubs please click here. You can support 1 vulnerable child in an Ace CtC Club with a donation of £30.