Keeping In Step While Socially Distant
Our Walk for Water events in cities around the country and throughout the world looked a little different in 2020. Instead of thousands of walkers sharing the same path, participants stepped out in their own neighborhoods. Social media posts replaced banners lining the event route. Despite these changes, the purpose remained the same: to raise awareness and support for the 2.2 billion people who still lack access to safe water.
In the midst of a challenging year, our partners’ commitment and passion for ending the global water crisis only grew. In March, COVID-19 was declared a national emergency. Our partners, staff, and volunteers immediately began re-imagining all Walks scheduled around the world as virtual events. Participants received digital toolkits with facts, stories, and graphics to share about the need for safe water with friends and family.
Over the course of the year, more than 5,300 people from 35 countries participated in 15 Walks and raised more than $875,000 to support our work.
“Washing your hands to fight against disease and infection is a luxury millions around the world don’t have. We are honored to commemorate their daily walk to bring awareness to their need for [safe] water.”
– Lisa, 2020 Walk for Water Participant
Although physically separate, we walked in step with each other and with those who are still awaiting safe water. We carried buckets down sidewalks and across cities, sharing the experience to help generate education, awareness, and financial support.
The reality of COVID-19 fueled our participants’ passion for bringing safe water to those who need it most. We walked for the communities that lack safe water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. We walked to help bring handwashing stations to refugee camps, hospitals, and schools. And we walked because access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene solutions are critical in stopping the spread of illness.
From Denmark to the Twin Cities, we walked to create a world where water is safe and accessible to all.
We walk so others don’t have to. Learn more about the 2021 Walk for Water.