This year, instead of asking for gifts for Christmas, I am asking that you think about donating to our campaign. I’ve realized that I really don’t need a few new shirts or a couple gift cards, and the gift of clean water can save lives around the world.

Many of us have no idea what it's like to be thirsty. We have plenty of water to drink -- even the water in our toilets is clean!

But many people around the world don’t have that luxury. 663 million people lack access to clean water worldwide. Every day, about 1,400 children die from diseases caused by unsafe water and poor sanitation. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are simple solutions like drilled wells, spring protections and BioSand filters that help provide clean water to communities around the world.

Charity: water works to build these types of projects around the world and provide clean water to those who need it the most. 100% of the money donated will be used to build clean water projects, and when they’re complete, charity: water will send us photos and GPS coordinates so we can see the exact community we helped.

So, if you were planning on giving me a gift, I ask that you donate instead. And even if you weren’t planning on it, maybe in this season of giving you want to spare even just a few dollars to help save lives.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this, and in advance for donating any amount. And know that your contribution will truly change lives.