FILM4water
FILM PHOTOGRAPHY PRINTS FUNDING CLEAN WATER
By SaltyViewfinder, Cyrus Maroofian
THE MISSION
Film4Water is a community-driven initiative that utilizes surf and beach life photography to raise awareness and funds for clean water projects around the world. Our mission is to unite a community of passionate individuals who share a love for the ocean and a commitment to making a positive impact. Through the power of film photography, we aim to inspire others to take action and join our efforts in bringing clean drinking water to those in need.
THE WATER CRisis
Globally, the water crisis claims about 3.4 Million lives every year. That's 3.4 Million people who won't be able to smile, love, and live in this beautiful world because they didn't have access to something we all believe is basic right - water. Being fortunate enough to never have experienced this problem for ourselves, we are the ones who have the best means to offer a solution. The water crisis affects ALL of us, not just the people who don't have water, because it's more than just about getting clean water - it's about saving humanity.
By the numbers
2.1 Billion
2.1 Billion people, globally, don't have access to safe water at home
32%
32%
IN THE END, THE WATER CRISIS IS A HUMAN CRISIS
Water is the foundation for basic life. Without clean drinking water, society and humanity suffers.
click each TOPIC to learn more
DISEASE & SICKNESS
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About 850 Million people lack basic drinking-water systems (WHO).
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Globally, about 2 Billion people have their water source contaminated by human/animal waste (WHO).
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Contaminated Water is the source of many diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, dysentery, typhoid, and polio. Each year about 1/2 Million people die from diarrhea related deaths (WHO).
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About 250 Million people are affected by schistosomiasis - a disease caused by a parasite found in infected water (WHO).
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About 50% of a diarrheal deaths could have been avoided through safe drinking water (WHO).
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32% of the world's population lacks access to basic sanitation facilities (WHO/UNICEF).
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In Africa, 42% of health facilities do not have access to a clean water source with 500 meters (WHO).
OUR SOLUTION
Our solution is use the community to raises awareness and funds for clean water projects through the sale of surf and beach life film photography, and by partnering with nonprofits to distribute water filters to those in need.
Filter distribution is just part of the solution. Our goal is to empower and educate the people receiving the filters as well encouraging everyone to do their part when possible.
HOW WE DO IT
1. Raising Money by selling photography prints (film only)
Typically a roll of 35mm film has 36 exposures. This could lead to 36 potential photos and therefore 36 different prints. These 36 prints, have the potential to provide a minimum of 3600 humans, clean drinkable water.
Here's the math the prove it....
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As you can see, each print has the potential to provide 1 Water Filter to a community, a location, or specific family. Each filter can provide the recipient clean drinking water for 100 people for years. (With proper care that can be even longer. Learn More) This means that each roll of film can provide 3600 people with clean water!
Why Film Photography?
To help support the photographers who enjoy and practice this type of photography. Film Photography isn't cheap, and with the rising costs of everything, film costs are now getting even higher and there's sometimes even shortages in the chemicals needed for development. I also personally enjoy and respect film photography and the care and attention that goes into each photograph. With each set of 36 photos, A portion of each print sold will go back to the artist while the rest goes towards the purchase of water filters.
The cost of the print (and number of filters purchased) is dependent on the size of the print.
There is a LIMIT 1 Print for each size
2. Connecting with Organizations/people around the world
This is one of the the most important steps, finding the people that actually need the help we can provide. This is the step that takes the most time to properly achieve. Yet, with thorough research we can find the correct people to connect with.
Some of the types of groups and organizations that we look to partner with:
We are also always looking for individuals traveling to places that could use a filter, and providing them with the filter, resources, and training to deliver them themselves. Learn more.
3. Setting up filters in communities/AREAS that need help
When it all comes together! When hours of time taking photos, reaching out to people, and traveling to locations all makes it worth. Setting up the first filter for a community and drinking that first cup of clean water is so powerful.
1. Make sure you work with a community leader or authority if possible
2. Determine the best method for the filter (Bucket, Tank, Individual, etc)
3. Make sure to demonstrate the filter setup in front of the leaders and people
4. Drink the first cup and offer a cup to anyone watching
5. Smile. It's IMportant to build trust and friendship
4. RINSE & REPEAT
The best part about our community-driven initiative is that it's easy to replicate! With our step-by-step guide, anyone can create their own water filter project and help provide clean drinking water to those in need. But it's not just about access to clean water. Sanitation is equally important in preventing waterborne illnesses, which is why we also encourage the use of proper hygiene practices and education on sanitation. Join us in our mission to make clean water accessible to all
SOME PROJECTS
FILM4WATER is a new venture, however, here are some water filter trips I have been on in the past
TANZANIA
MARCH 2015
# of Filters - 2
Filters Set up at - School and Village
Impact - 200 People
Traveled With - HSICF
BALI
NOVEMBER 2019
# of Filters - 1
Filters Set up at - Family
Impact - 100 People
Traveled With - Self
BOLIVIA
MARCH 2016
# of Filters - 1
Filters Set up at - Private Home
Impact - 100 People
Traveled With - Self
BAJA MEXICO
AUGUST 2018
# of Filters - 2
Filters Set up at - Orphanage Camp
Impact - 200 People
Traveled With - HSICF
1 in 10 people don't have access to cleaning drinking water, but that means 9 in 10 people can help
WAYS YOU CAN HELP and SUPPORT
Support can come in different shapes and sizes and all of it is impactful! Learn more about the different ways you can support not only the organization, but people around the world and local artists.