Mexico's water and sanitation crisis

Out of its population of 127 million people, 72 million people (57% of the population) lack access to safe water and 47 million people (37%) lack access to a safe toilet. Water supply and sanitation in Mexico has experienced both great achievements and continued challenges. Over the last two decades, Mexico saw a significant nationwide increase in access to piped water supply and improved sanitation in both urban and rural areas, however a lack of ongoing investment has slowed progress in getting access to safe water to low-income communities.

The challenges include water scarcity and droughts in major parts of the country, inadequate drinking water quality and wastewater treatment, and inefficient utilities. More than half of Mexican households with access to piped water receive services on an intermittent basis, and Mexico currently has the highest per capita consumption of bottled water worldwide. Now more than ever, lasting access to safe water at home is critical to families in Mexico.

  • Stories of Impact

    Safe water, ice cream, and fulfilling dreams

    Kristel and Carlos dream of giving their children a life of health and opportunity. Their dreams motivated them to find a solution to overcome their water crisis in Mexico City. Read their story to learn how a small loan for a safe water solution is helping make their dreams come true.

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  • Stories of Impact

    Where Sergio and Gloria Grow

    Gloria and Sergio live in Mexico where, they now have affordable, lasting access to safe water. Click below to find out how a small loan for water storage cisterns allows this couple to enjoy their retired years tending to their garden and caring for their family.

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  • Stories of Impact

    To when flowers bloom

    There was a time Leticia and Salvador worried about whether or not they could sustain their family and their livelihood because they lacked access to safe water at home. Read about how a small loan for a lasting safe water solution helped Salvador seize his income-generating potential and change his family's lives.

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Mexico impact statistics

People reached 133,000

The number of people who now have access to safe water or sanitation and the health and opportunity they bring.

Capital mobilized (USD) $68 million

Our partners mobilize funds from capital markets to provide water and sanitation loans.

Loans disbursed 34,000

Our local partners make loans to people in need for life-changing safe water and sanitation solutions.

Number of active partners 8

We work with financial institutions, service providers, international agencies, and governments to make an impact.

Repayment rate 98%

Every repaid loan means another family in need can get affordable access to safe water at home.

Average loan size (USD) $2,007

Small loans can help make a big difference by providing long-term solutions for families in need around the world.

Percent of women borrowers 55%

Women are primarily responsible for household water collection and are solving the water crisis for their families.

To help end the water crisis in Mexico, donate today.

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