Milliman Giving Fund’s Dedication to Global Health
In a notable step toward enhancing global health and hygiene, Milliman, Inc., a well-respected consulting and actuarial firm, has launched a significant initiative through its Milliman Giving Fund. Recently, the organization granted a generous $750,000 to Splash International, committing this funding over the next three years. The goal is to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure and education through the innovative Project WISE (Wash in Schools for Everyone).
What is Project WISE?
Started in 2019, Project WISE aims to deliver comprehensive WASH solutions that are vital for primary education in rapidly growing urban areas. By concentrating on government schools, this initiative seeks to create sustainable water and hygiene facilities while also encouraging health education. This effort includes highlighting menstrual health as a crucial topic within the educational context for all students.
Broadening Impact with Phase 2
Thanks to the new funding, Project WISE is entering Phase 2, which will broaden its efforts across multiple countries to enhance sanitation conditions in carefully selected cities in East Africa. This phase aims not only to provide facilities but also to strengthen local capacities by training partners to maintain and manage these important projects long-term. This represents a significant leap towards demonstrating Splash's effective and adaptable model in different geographic areas.
Progress Since 2021
From 2021 to 2023, the Milliman Giving Fund has contributed a remarkable total of $750,000, which has helped improve access to safe drinking water, provided hygiene kits for effective handwashing, and established child-friendly restroom facilities in locations like Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar in Ethiopia, and Kolkata in India. These grants have significantly impacted the quality of school environments, fostering better health for students.
A Personal Testimony of Impact
John Meerschaert, Co-Chair of the Milliman Giving Fund, shared his firsthand experience from a recent trip to Ethiopia. He expressed his gratefulness for the chance to witness the positive changes Splash is making in educational institutions. For him, supporting Project WISE in this new phase was an effortless decision, underlining the critical link between education, hygiene, and health.
Supporting Opportunities for Girls
Beyond just sanitation, the initiative aims to foster an atmosphere of respect and support for female students through education on menstrual health. Deborah Wolf, another Co-Chair of the Milliman Giving Fund, pointed out that the benefits of the project reach well beyond clean drinking water and sanitation facilities, thereby creating a more inclusive environment for all children.
Strategic Collaborations for a Brighter Future
Eric Stowe, the Founder and CEO of Splash, spoke about how essential the partnership with the Milliman Giving Fund has been in transforming water safety for the thousands of children served. He is hopeful that this new funding will ensure that every public school in Addis Ababa will have access to clean water, proper hygiene practices, and respectful restroom facilities by 2024.
Looking Ahead
This grant will also enable Splash to kick off Project WISE in additional countries, providing significant advantages for many children in new urban areas across East Africa. While the goals are ambitious, the vision is clear: striving to extend transformative solutions and secure a healthier future for everyone.
The Importance of the Milliman Giving Fund
Fueled by contributions from Milliman employees and retirees, the Milliman Giving Fund is dedicated to promoting the firm’s mission. Through strategic disbursements, the Fund supports initiatives that aim to bolster health, education, and economic development in communities worldwide, having contributed over $5 million since its establishment in 2019.
About Milliman
Milliman is a premier firm in global consulting and actuarial services, providing specialized solutions in healthcare, insurance, financial services, and employee benefits. Founded in 1947, this independent firm operates globally, focusing on delivering innovative, client-centered solutions.
About Splash
Splash is committed to social equity and is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals in need by providing safe water solutions, particularly for children. Their approach emphasizes urban economies, aiming to establish a self-sufficient framework that ultimately reduces the need for assistance and fosters sustainable development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Project WISE?
Project WISE focuses on improving water, sanitation, and hygiene conditions in schools, supplemented by educational initiatives that raise health awareness.
How much did Milliman’s Giving Fund donate?
The Milliman Giving Fund granted $750,000 to Splash International for their ongoing initiatives.
What regions benefit from this funding?
This funding primarily supports projects in Ethiopia and India, with plans to expand into other East African countries.
How does Splash aid girls in schools?
Splash’s initiatives incorporate menstrual health education to empower and support female students.
What has been the overall impact of the Milliman Giving Fund?
Since its inception, the Fund has contributed over $5 million to various global health and education programs that aim to make a difference.
