The Power of Solar

Many families in rural Kenya lack access to electricity, requiring the use of hazardous and expensive alternatives.

Families face an immense financial burden when they have to spend limited resources on kerosene, candles, and batteries. Some women report they spend almost their entire income on energy costs, a huge impediment to breaking the cycle of poverty.

Kerosene lanterns emit carbon monoxide and other pollutants which cause adverse health effects. Exposure can cause respiratory and cardiac diseases and even death. Many girls now need glasses because their eyes have been affected. Lanterns and candles are also a fire risk.

Solar panels make a difference in health, financial stability, and opportunities for women and girls. With solar powered lights, children can study and women can work in the evenings. Outdoor lights improve security in isolated areas and decrease theft. Solar panels also power cell phones, which are necessary for women’s businesses.

Eunice expresses her gratitude for receiving a solar panel: "When I joined Path From Poverty I was not sure whether I would make it but through the encouragement of the group members I have been able to acquire two tanks, and now I have a solar panel. Being in a group is so important because I have learnt a lot and I have been able to get a lot of confidence in whatever I start doing. Having this solar panel I will be able to work after sunset and generate more income for my family."

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Cutting Wood for Water

By Laura Milleville • 06 Feb, 2024

Several years ago, two men on the Olympic Peninsula met regularly to cut and donate firewood to local auctions and families in need. Through the Sequim Sunrise Rotary Club, they learned about Path From Poverty in 2018. The men agreed that Path From Poverty was a good cause and decided to lend their support! The group of woodcutters grew by several members, men ranging from their 60s to their 90s. Each week, this team of lumberjacks meets to cut wood that has been donated by tree removal experts. The trees are cut and delivered to Jack’s home, where the lumberjacks get to work. They cut the wood into logs and then deliver the cords to the local community. Most of the cords are sold and the proceeds are donated to Path From Poverty, while some are given to families in need. In 2022 alone, the team put in 1,000 hours and drove over 6,000 miles delivering cords of firewood. Since 2016, the Woodcutters team has donated over $63,000 to Path From Poverty, making a significant impact in the lives of Kenyan women. Jack notes, “Besides the donations we make to PFP, we benefit from the exercise but mainly we enjoy each other's company and have become close friends.” Read more about the Woodcutters at the Sequim Gazette: Sequim woodcutters find friendship while raising thousands for nonprofit | Sequim Gazette