A United Methodist church is boosting community health and revitalizing its mission at the same time through a clean water initiative.
In 2019, Trinity United Methodist Church in Naivasha received a $30,000 grant from the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) to install a reverse osmosis (RO) water purification system.
The borehole water in the area was naturally high in fluoride, posing serious health risks to families. Fluoride can have both positive and negative effects on health, and excessive levels can be harmful, according to the World Health Organization.
With the new reverse osmosis system, the church transformed unsafe water into clean, drinkable water – protecting lives and strengthening trust in the community.
The system serves about 5,000 people, including 550-600 schoolchildren at Trinity United Methodist Church, which receives water at no cost. Another 30% of the community receive water for free because they cannot afford it otherwise. Community members who have the means can buy water for about 5% of the cost of purchasing bottles from retail stores and church members also pay a lower price.
“From a bird’s-eye view, the community now sees the church not only as a place of worship, but also as a caring partner addressing practical needs and improving public health,” he added. “This project provides a strong model for other congregations in the district seeking sustainable ministry and community impact,” said the Rev. Paul Matheri, dean of superintendents for the district.
The system, which includes a process for bottling water, quickly became more than just a health solution. It also generated steady income of about $700 monthly. A few businesses in the community buy Trinity’s water, such as a bakery, factory, and other retailers. These funds cover electricity, maintenance, and staff salaries, while supporting wider church development, including teachers at the church’s academy.
Improving Financial Stress
For the Rev. Helen Waithira, pastor-in-charge of Trinity Circuit, the project has been transformative. “The project demonstrates the gospel through compassionate service while also opening doors for evangelism, discipleship, and community fellowship,” she continued. “However, the major challenges include high electricity costs, maintenance expenses, filter replacement, and ensuring consistent technical support,” she said.
She recalled the financial struggles before the project. “The church operated under limited resources and struggled to meet ministry and operational expenses consistently. Our major sources of funding were member offerings, tithes, small donations, and occasional support from partners. It was not enough. We struggled with utility bills, staff wages, and facility maintenance.”
The new system has eased the financial stress.
“The income from water sales helps cover electricity, salaries, maintenance, and operational costs, though rising power expenses remain a challenge,” said Project Manager Tabitha Waithira.
Next Steps for Improved Sustainability
Despite the successes, challenges remain. High electricity costs threaten sustainability. Leaders see solar energy as the next step to secure the project’s future.
Bishop Wandabula reflected on the broader significance. “From this, other churches can learn that mission projects become more effective when they address real community needs, such as health, education, and sustainability alongside spiritual ministry.
“The availability of renewable energy, especially solar power, will help churches reduce operational costs, strengthen outreach ministries, and sustain community-based development projects for the long term,” he said.
“We thank UMCOR for their financial support,” he added. “This project has supported not only the church and its members, but the community at large. It is a living testimony that when the church responds to real needs, it embodies Christ’s mission of compassion and transformation.”
Your Donations Help
Your gifts on UMCOR Sunday helps support the foundation for the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) so that they can provide lifesaving grants to people suffering from disasters around the world.
excerpt from a story by Rev. Paul Matheri, Dean of superintendents, Naivasha District, in the Kenya-Ethiopia Conference. Kudzai Chingwe is Africa content development coordinator for Global Ministries.
This story shows the impact of UMCOR Sunday—one of six United Methodist Special Sundays with offerings—to ensure that help and hope reach those in crisis. Your gifts cover the administrative costs of the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), so that 100% of other donations can go directly to disaster response and humanitarian aid. Together, we make it possible for the Church to respond swiftly and faithfully when the world needs care most.
When you give generously on UMCOR Sunday, you sustain the ministry that enables the Church to bring God’s love and practical help to disaster-stricken communities.
