Food & Health

As Bonnie noted earlier today, the theme of World Water Day 2007 is Coping with Water Scarcity. New York City has a bountiful supply of clean running water from pristine upstate reservoirs -the largest unfiltered supply in the world. 1.3 billion gallons of water are used daily. As, we have noted before others are not as lucky. Over 21 percent of children living in developing countries do not have access to clean water. That’s more than one billion people, or one in five children. 80 percent of all illness and infant mortality is due to waterborne disease. Lack of clean water is the second largest killer of children under five.

With $1, UNICEF can provide 40 liters of safe drinking water, which is enough to give one child safe drinking water for 40 days, or forty children safe drinking water for one day. Despite occasional bad press, New Yorkers are actually quite a caring bunch, eager to help the less fortunate. Today diners at many New York restaurants can participate in the Tap Project by accepting a $1 per person charge for the tap water they drink with their meal which would normally be free. Donations go to UNICEF and will help save lives by providing safe drinking water to children around the world.

Find a map and full listing of participating restaurants here. Caring Non-New Yorkers can help by making a contribution to the Tap Project here. Cheers to clean water for all one day soon! :: Tap Project