As we wrap up 2025, we wanted to share a really heartwarming update from our Eco-Toilet Drive. When we launched this project, our goal was to raise $10,000 to build two blocks of three eco-toilets for the community living high on the mountain with no electricity or running water. We honestly hoped to get close to our target by now, but this year fundraising has been incredibly tough for everyone.
Even so, we didn’t want the slow fundraising to hold us back. With just under $400 raised, we realised we actually had enough to get started on at least one block. It covered the wood, roofing, toilet seats, buckets and cement, just enough to build three toilets. So instead of waiting for the full amount, we went ahead.
Last month we were joined by an amazing team of volunteers from TMF Seattle, USA, and with their support we spent the week building the first block of three eco-toilets. We’re really proud to say it’s now complete. The reaction from the community has been incredibly uplifting. Kids, parents and grandparents were all smiling and excited to finally have a safe, private space to use. It really reminded us why these small projects matter so much.
The community has already asked about the second block, which will be placed at the other end of the township, and we’re committed to making that happen. The only thing we weren’t able to fund yet is the $500 needed for our Community Outreach Day, a Saturday workshop where children can help paint and decorate the toilets, families can learn how to use and look after them, and we can explain how composting toilets create fertiliser that will help with food growing in the community. It’s such an important part of helping everyone feel ownership of the toilets and understanding the long-term benefits.
We’ll be focusing on raising these remaining funds early in the new year so we can run the workshop properly and then begin building the second block as soon as we can. After that, our next big goal is to start working on wellpoint and borehole water access, which the community urgently needs.
For now, we just want to say a huge thank you to everyone who donated and supported us this year. Because of you, one block of eco-toilets is already built and being used every day — a small but meaningful step forward for this community.
Wishing you a warm, happy and peaceful festive season, and here’s to making an even bigger impact together in 2026.
Tyrone and the Action Change Team!
