The WISH Waterline in Anse-à-Galets, Haiti, is a cornerstone of the island’s infrastructure, operated by West Indies Self Help (WISH). For over 35 years, this system has served as a lifeline on the arid island of La Gonâve, where chronic drought and lack of natural springs make water more precious than gold.
The WISH Waterline is often described by the community as a manifestation of “Living Water.” It reflects the biblical mandate to care for “the least of these” by providing for a most basic human need, serving as a physical testimony of God’s provision in a place often called “the forgotten island.”
Key Statistics & Impact
The following figures highlight the scale and necessity of the WISH water infrastructure:
- People Served: Over 50,000–55,000 residents in Anse-à-Galets.
- Infrastructure: 4 miles of pipe running from mountain springs to the city.
- Public Access: 18 strategically placed fountains to reduce walking distances for families.
- Storage Capacity: A 40,000-gallon reservoir that regulates distribution.
- Annual Output: Approximately 60 million gallons of water delivered per year.
- New Innovation: A solar-powered desalination plant (partnership with GivePower) adding 20,000+ gallons of pure water daily.
A Mission of Stewardship
WISH approaches this project not just as engineering, but as stewardship. Because the original system was built for a population of 10,000 and now supports over 50,000, the ministry focuses on constant “upgrading and redeeming” of the infrastructure—replacing corroded pipes and repairing fountains to ensure no drop is wasted.
- Self-Sufficiency: By employing local technicians, the project empowers the Haitian people to maintain their own resources, reflecting the belief that every individual has God-given dignity and talent.
- Holistic Care: The water system is the “spine” of WISH’s other ministries, which include an ice plant, a feeding program for 100+ children, youth and women’s ministries and a publicly available resource center.
“Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” — John 7:38