Arsad, an Indonesian farmer, had no toilet in his home, so he had to walk into the forest to the open defecation area, even at night or in the rain.
With the support of Caritas Australia and its partner, Laz Harfa, he took part in hygiene, sanitation and financial management training. He decided to fund the building of a toilet in his house and facilitated others in his neighbourhood to save up for toilets.
Now, Arsad and his family are healthier and have reduced their medical expenses. Their community no longer practices open defecation and is more harmonious. A community event, called ‘Declaration of Open Defecation-Free’ was even held to acknowledge their achievements.
Read more about Arsad and support many more like her at: lent.caritas.org.au/