The community is located in the Municipality of Viacha, Province of Ingave, Department of La Paz, Bolivia (approximately 70 kilometers south of La Paz - 1.5 hours by bus). As is the case with most communities in the area, the local economy is agricultural based in the cultivation of potatoes, quinoa, and barley, as well as pasturing of sheep and cows. The community lacks any potable water service. The problems encountered are due to the use of contaminated shallow open wells, and water from streams with excessive turbidity, especially after heave rains. During the dry season, the water sources diminish greatly requiring the community members, primarily the women and children, must walk and carry water much greater distances. The lack of water has lead to habits inconsistent with basic hygiene practices such as washing of hands before meals and bathing regularly. Locals have indicated that it is typical that they wash their hands only once each day after breakfast, and to bathe themselves once a month, all due to the lack of sufficient water. Water is not boiled due to lack of fuel, and receives no treatment for bacteria, stored in open containers usually on the floor. It is not uncommon that animals are kept in the patio of each home, in many cases around the shallow, unprotected well that serves as the family’s water source. Approximately 70% of the local population does not have latrines, and those that do have only very rudimentary and poorly constructed facilities. Typical illnesses in the area consist of diarrhea, cough, pneumonia, and very commonly acute respiratory infections, tuberculosis and rheumatism. The medical post reports many problems with parasites and worms.